LAKEPORT, Calif. – On Friday, Sept. 2, you can be a hero.

You will have the opportunity to make a life-saving donation at Umpqua Bank, 805 11th St., in Lakeport.

Blood Centers of the Pacific (formerly Blood Bank of the Redwoods) will host a blood drive from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Donating blood is safe, simple and saves lives.

The actual donation process takes only 10 to 15 minutes.

Donors should plan about one hour total, to complete a brief questionnaire, donate and enjoy a snack afterwards.

Donors may schedule appointments by calling 888-393-GIVE (4483) or online at www.bloodheroes.com. Click “Donate Blood” and enter sponsor code “UmpquaLP.” Appointments are not required.

A single donation can save and enhance the lives of as many as three patients!

Donated blood is used in life saving procedures and treatments including caring for accident victims, organ transplantation, open-heart surgeries, new mothers and babies, chemotherapy patients and more.

Blood Centers of the Pacific serves 43 Northern California hospitals and their patients.

All blood types are needed and 500 donors per day are needed to meet the demand.

Donating blood takes very little time. Individuals should eat a well-balanced meal within four hours of donating and should be well hydrated. Simply bring a photo I.D., donate and save lives. In less than one hour, you can make a difference. Find the hero in you!

For further information, call Kim at 707-280-2563 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..