OOLITIC — The town of Oolitic is issuing a call for volunteers to help bring a local blood drive to the community this summer. The Oolitic Town Blood Drive is tentatively planned for late July 2026, with the Oolitic Pentecostal Church Fellowship Hall at 231 Lafayette Avenue serving as the host site.
However, before the American Red Cross can officially schedule the event, the community must first meet a specific volunteer milestone.
Because the event is not currently being organized by an established sponsor, the Red Cross requires a commitment from at least 20 individuals before a firm date can be set.
“The need is constant, and the gratification is instant,” the Red Cross stated in its promotional materials, emphasizing that sponsorship for the drive will only be approved for scheduling once this quota of 20 donors is reached.
Both new and established donors are encouraged to participate. Residents have until April 30, 2026, to add their names to the commitment list.
There are two ways for volunteers to register their intent to donate: by visiting the sign-up sheet located at Oolitic Town Hall or by calling 812-804-7077 and leaving a voicemail including your name, phone number, and personal email address.
The American Red Cross provides roughly 40% of the nation’s blood supply. Small-town drives like the one proposed in Oolitic are vital for maintaining blood inventories, especially during the summer months when donations typically decline due to travel and school breaks.
For more information on blood donation eligibility or to find other drives, residents can visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.
