CHAMPAIGN – To help address the state’s blood supply shortage, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is calling on healthy, eligible donors to donate blood at two upcoming blood drives taking place next week in Urbana and Danville.

“The need for blood is greater than ever, and these drives are an effort to help meet the current demand for blood donations,” Bennett said. “If you are healthy and able, your participation is critical to help save lives during this ongoing public health crisis.”

The blood drives will take place Tuesday, Sept. 8 through Friday, Sept. 11 at the Urbana Donor Center, located at 1408 W. University Ave. in Urbana, and the Danville Elks Donor Center, located at 300 E. Liberty Lane in Danville. Donation hours at the Urbana location can be found here, and Danville here.

Donor centers are following recommendations from local, state and federal health agencies to keep staff, volunteers and donors safe. Appointments and masks will be required, and chairs in all areas will be at least six feet apart.

Healthy and eligible candidates can schedule an appointment to donate in Urbana at https://ilsendems.co/C-UBloodDrive or in Danville at https://ilsendems.co/DanvilleBloodDrive. All presenting donors will receive a voucher for a $10 gift card to a location of their choice, which can be redeemed through Sept. 20.

For more information, Bennett urges residents to contact his Champaign office at 217-355-5252 or his Danville office at 217-442-5252. Those with questions can also visit his website, SenatorBennett.com.