Keep warm, Cincinnati

As the winter chill sets in, Hoxworth Blood Center, University of Cincinnati, is offering an extra layer of warmth for those who step up to save lives this Dec. 1-31. Those who donate blood or platelets will receive a FREE winter puffy jacket (*available while supplies last) — perfect for the colder months or as a thoughtful gift for someone in need. 

Blood and platelet donations remain crucial throughout the holiday season, a time when donations often drop. Hoxworth invites donors to visit any of its seven Neighborhood Donor Centers in Anderson, Blue Ash, Ft. Mitchell, Clifton, West Chester, Tri-County and Western Hills or select mobile blood drives in the Tristate seven days a week during December. As a thank you gift for their generosity, donors will receive a winter puffy jacket.

"Donating blood is like wrapping a community in warmth and care. By giving just a small amount of your time, you’re not only supporting local patients in need but also helping to make a significant impact during a season that can be especially challenging for hospitals," said David Oh, MD, co-director and chief medical officer of Hoxworth Blood Center.

In addition, on Tuesday, Dec. 10, Hoxworth will be celebrating its 86th anniversary of saving lives close to home. As a special bonus and in celebration of the holiday season, everyone who donates at any of Hoxworth’s locations will receive a light-up holiday hat — a perfect addition to a winter wardrobe. Appointments are limited, so schedule a donation today and join Hoxworth in commemorating this milestone.

"As we celebrate 86 years of service, we honor not only the incredible generosity of our donors but also the many accomplishments that have shaped Hoxworth Blood Center into a leader in health care," said Caroline Alquist, MD, PhD, co-director and CEO of Hoxworth.

Since 1938, Hoxworth has been the sole blood provider for regional hospitals, supporting countless lives through blood transfusions, transplants and apheresis. Hoxworth's involvement in cutting-edge research and education continues to advance medical practices, and its commitment to improving patient outcomes remains at the heart of everything it does.

"We are deeply grateful to our donors and partners for helping us reach this milestone, and we look forward to continuing this life-saving work for many years to come," said Alquist.

Whether a person is looking to make a difference or needs a warm jacket for the winter, December is the perfect time to start a Hoxworth habit and donate blood. Schedule a donation today at hoxworth.org, call (513) 451-0910 or download the mobile app to find the nearest Neighborhood Donor Center or mobile drive.

Please note, all Hoxworth locations will be closed on Dec. 25, but donations can still be made before or after Christmas Day to help support local patients in need. The gift of life can make all the difference for those in need, so don’t wait — schedule now.