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Giving the gift of life just got more meaningful.

Donating blood with Kentucky Blood Center is always good for the community, since blood donations stay local. Now, all donations are tested for COVID-19 antibodies, meaning you may be able to help a neighbor battling COVID-19 with your donation.

Blood donors who regularly donate at local blood drives ensure blood is on the shelf in the hospitals for their neighbors who may need blood because of accidents, injuries and other surgeries and illnesses, including COVID-19.

Plasma derived from donations that test positive for the COVID-19 antibody could be designated as convalescent plasma and used to treat patients fighting COVID-19 in your area. In addition, those with positive test results may be contacted regarding future convalescent plasma donations by our team.

There will be a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the fellowship hall of First Assembly of God, 1701 Wilmore Road, Nicholasville. It is sponsored by Culvers.

Donors will receive a coupon for a free pint of custard.

Donors at this upcoming KBC blood drive will also receive a limited-edition KBC winter hat.

Blood donors must be 17 (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, show a photo ID and meet additional requirements. Sixteen-year-old donors must have a signed parental permission slip, which can be found at kybloodcenter.org.

To schedule a donation, visit kybloodcenter.org or call 800.775.2522.