Red Cross presents honors

The American Red Cross has recognized a Union County school, church and resident for their ongoing support of the community blood program.

The Red Cross honored Anna-Jonesboro Community High School, the First Baptist Church in Anna and Anna community blood drive coordinator Sara Hensch.

Blood drives take place at A-JCHS and the First Baptist Church throughout the year.

The Red Cross extended its thanks to the staff and students at A-JCHS, the staff and congregation at the First Baptist Church, and Hensch, along with "generous blood donors of Anna and Union County. Each of you make it possible for the Red Cross to help hospital patients in need of blood."

A-JCHS blood drive coordinator Julie Lewis accepted a plaque on behalf of the school.

First Baptist Church Pastor Roy Hill accepted the award on behalf of the church.

Blood donors are needed year-round for treating cancer patients, organ transplant recipients and trauma victims.

A stable supply is necessary to ensure that blood is available when patients need it most, the Red Cross noted.

Blood drive scheduled

Area residents can help to boost the summer blood supply by being a donor at an American Red Cross Anna Community Donor Appreciation drive which is planned Thursday, June 4, in Union County.

The drive is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the First Baptist Church at 409 Morgan St. in Anna.

Anyone who comes to donate blood at the Donor Appreciation drive will receive free food and be eligible to win door prizes.

For more information, or to make an appointment to be a donor, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543).