Chester High School will host a high-needs blood drive later this month, and community members are being encouraged to donate to help local hospital patients.

The blood drive is scheduled for Wednesday, November 18th, from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Chester High School.

As a thank-you, every donor will receive a 15-dollar Kwik Star gift card.

Community Blood Bank Executive Director Ken Versteeg says every unit of blood donated stays in the local health care system, helping provide care for neighbors when they need it most. Blood donations are essential for emergency and trauma care, surgeries, and treatment of critically ill patients. Since blood cannot be manufactured, hospitals depend on volunteer donors to maintain an adequate supply.

A donation takes approximately 30 minutes from check-in to refreshments, and a single donation can help more than one patient. Donors should bring a photo ID, eat a healthy meal, and drink plenty of water before giving blood.

Donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in good general health.

Appointments can be scheduled online at C-B-B-Life-Blood-dot-org. You can also call the Community Blood Bank at 605-331-3222.

Community Blood Bank supplies blood to 43 area hospitals, including Madison Regional Health System.