LifeShare Blood Center is showing its appreciation to blood donors this Thanksgiving season with a special giveaway aimed at encouraging donations during one of the most challenging times of the year for the blood supply.

From Tuesday, November 17, through Saturday, November 21, everyone who successfully donates blood, platelets, or plasma at a LifeShare Blood Center location or mobile blood drive will receive a free fleece blanket and a $15 voucher toward the purchase of a Thanksgiving ham or turkey. The voucher can be redeemed at a wide variety of grocery stores.

The annual Thanks for Giving campaign is LifeShare’s way of recognizing donors who help save lives throughout the region.

Thanksgiving week is traditionally one of the most difficult periods for maintaining an adequate blood supply. With families traveling, preparing holiday meals, and enjoying time together, fewer people make time to donate. However, hospitals continue to need blood for emergencies, surgeries, and patients undergoing treatment.

“Blood donors are the reason patients across our region have access to lifesaving care,” said Mandi Johnson, Director of Community Engagement at LifeShare Blood Center. “Thanksgiving is about gratitude, and no one deserves our thanks more than the donors who show up for patients they may never meet.”

Last year, 1,630 donors participated in the Thanks for Giving campaign. This year, LifeShare hopes to increase that number to 1,800 donors.

LifeShare reminds the public that donating takes approximately an hour and can make a lifesaving difference for patients in need.

The promotion runs November 17–21, 2026, at LifeShare donor centers and mobile blood drives throughout Louisiana, east Texas, and south Arkansas.

To find a nearby donation location or mobile blood drive, visit www.lifeshare.org/give or call 800-256-5433. Complete promotional details and terms are available at www.lifeshare.org/promos.

This Thanksgiving, LifeShare encourages everyone who is eligible to roll up their sleeves, give the gift of life, and help ensure blood is available for patients who need it.

---