The management and staff at Yosemite Lakes Park in Coarsegold invite you, your family and friends to help save lives by donating blood at a blood drive on Saturday, Aug. 18.

The bloodmobile will be parked at the YLP clubhouse between the hours of 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. to take your donations. Donors will receive a voucher for a free pint of Baskin Robbins Ice Cream, plus a variety of discounts from valley businesses for dining, recreation, entertainment and other services.

"Summer is always a challenging time of year for blood donations. We often see a seasonal drop due to increased outdoor activity, traveling and vacations," states Chris Sorensen, director of community relations and development for the Central California Blood Center. "However, patients in Valley hospitals are entirely dependent on the continued good will of our generous blood donors every day, regardless of what else may be happening." Sorensen adds, "With that in mind, we are asking members of the community to please continue their commitment to giving the "gift of life" this summer as often as possible."

Blood donation takes less than one hour to complete. Donors must be in good general health, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old (16 years old with written parental permission).

Senior citizens are encouraged to donate, as there is no upper age limit. Donors should eat a good meal and drink plenty of water within 4 hours prior to their donation. Donors can give blood every eight weeks. Photo ID and social security number are required at donor registration.

The Central California Blood Center is the sole provider of blood and blood products for the 31 hospitals in Madera, Fresno, Tulare, Kings and Mariposa Counties and must collect between 5,000 to 6,000 pints of blood a month to meet the needs of the Valley community.