Warren, PA — The Community Blood Bank of Northwest PA and Western New York brought its annual Donor Appreciation Day on the road this year, making a special stop in Warren on Tuesday, July 15th to ensure more donors had a chance to celebrate with them.

The mobile blood drive, held at Holy Redeemer Church, is part of a regional tour recognizing the everyday heroes who help save lives through blood donations.

“We’re decided to take the celebration on the road this year in order to reach donors who can’t make it up to Erie,” said Megan Solensky, Community Relations Specialist with the Community Blood Bank. “This way, all of our donors get a chance to feel appreciated. We want to make it fun to donate blood - that's why we do these appreciation events and want to do more year-round. We are saving lives here, and that is a very serious thing - but it's fun too, it's fun to save lives.”

In Warren, donors received free vouchers for the Bucket Brigade Pizza Truck, which was parked outside, along with t-shirts, pens, snacks, and other giveaways as a heartfelt thank-you.

“I like to donate to the Community Blood Bank because it helps our community - and my donation stays in the community, and I really like that," stated Warren donor, Dr. Jacqueline Caringola. "It's nice that they are recognizing us for the donations too." 

Organizers say turnout was strong, and the traveling appreciation events are helping them connect with more donors throughout Western New York and Northwest Pennsylvania.

The next stop on the tour is Thursday, July 17th, at UPMC Chautauqua in Jamestown, New York.

More information on upcoming blood drives can be found at fourhearts.org.