Donors invited for appreciation event and chance to win Super Bowl LX Getaway

The Iola Lions Club, in partnership with the American Red Cross, will hold a community blood drive on Wednesday, Jan. 21, at the Iola-Scandinavia Fitness and Aquatic Center. The event will run from noon to 5 p.m. All eligible donors are encouraged to participate and help address the ongoing need for blood, especially during the winter months when donations typically decline.

Pre-registration is encouraged. Donors can schedule their appointment by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or visiting www.redcrossblood.org.

To thank both past and present donors, the blood drive will feature several appreciation attractions. Every donor will receive a gift card, while those who bring friends who have not donated in the past year will earn an additional special gift for their guests. This is a great opportunity to invite new donors and help replenish critical blood supplies.

With winter weather impacting donation rates, all blood types are urgently needed, especially O positive (O+). O+ is the most common blood type, found in 38 percent of the population, making these donations particularly vital for ongoing patient care in hospitals. Every donor’s reason for giving is unique — whether honoring a loved one, showing gratitude for receiving blood, or simply wanting to help others — your contribution is appreciated and makes a difference.

Super Bowl LX Getaway Sweepstakes

As an added incentive, all donors at the Jan. 21 event will be entered for a chance to win an exciting Super Bowl LX getaway to California. The prize package includes two tickets to the Super Bowl, access to in-stadium pregame activities, entry to the official Super Bowl Experience, round-trip airfare to the San Francisco Bay Area, three-night hotel accommodations from February 6–9, 2026, and a $1,000 gift card for expenses.

Donating blood is a meaningful way to support your community and help save lives. Join the Iola Lions and Red Cross for this special event, and consider bringing a friend to share in the experience and the appreciation. Together, we can ensure that local hospitals have the blood they need, no matter the weather.