With a critically low supply due to the holidays and recent weather events, Williamson Health and Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee are partnering with Blood Assurance, the sole provider of blood products for Williamson Health, to host a blood drive on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, from 12 – 5 p.m. Though walk-ins are welcome, donors are encouraged to sign up here via the Blood Assurance website for an appointment time.

January is National Blood Donor Month and blood supplies are critically low as the winter months are often a time of reduced donations. This has been exacerbated due to recent storms, holiday celebrations and a heavy cold and flu season.

“This month, we are raising awareness for National Blood Donor Month and encourage people to donate,” said Max Winitz, spokesperson for Blood Assurance. “While we celebrate our loyal donors, we are currently experiencing a critically low blood supply due to the holidays and inclement weather, and need more donors to give blood.”

The January blood drive will be held in the Blood Assurance mobile unit in the Bone and Joint Institute parking lot, 3000 Edward Curd Lane in Franklin. Williamson Medical Center and Bone and Joint Institute are both part of Williamson Health, a regional healthcare system with more than 30 locations throughout Williamson County. Donors will receive a fleece blanket in recognition of National Blood Donor Month while supplies last.

Donors must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health. Donors are asked to drink plenty of fluids — avoiding caffeine — and eat a meal that is rich in iron prior to donating.