Once again, Baldwin EMC is calling on members of the community to celebrate the season of giving by rolling up their sleeves to save lives. The co-op will host the 11th annual Power of Giving blood and non-perishable food drive at the Baldwin EMC headquarters office in Summerdale on Thursday, December 1.

“The holidays are now upon us, and we hope the community will join us in the spirit of sharing and caring,” said Baldwin EMC Vice President of Energy Services and Public Relations Mark Ingram. “With everyone focused on shopping and celebrating, we just ask that they pause and consider making a different kind of gift on December 1. Rolling up your sleeve to make a blood donation could actually translate into the gift of life for someone in our community.”

Staff members from LifeSouth Community Blood Centers will be set up in Baldwin EMC’s Training Center from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to take blood donations. In order to give blood, you must be in good health, 17 years of age or older, weigh at least 110 pounds and show a valid photo I.D.

New or gently used children’s coats and non-perishable food will also be accepted. All blood donors will be entered into a drawing for the chance to win a $100 Visa gift card or an electric grill.