For 53 years, Blood Assurance has been far more than just a blood bank. It has been a trusted, non-profit community partner working tirelessly to meet the needs of hospitals and patients across Middle Tennessee and the Chattanooga area.

The statistics tell the story. Whether due to an accident, surgical procedure, or chronic health condition, someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion every two seconds.

Although its availability depends entirely on the generosity of donors, it is estimated that only three percent of eligible Americans choose to give. In the face of this critical need, Blood Assurance exists as a lifeline, ensuring that life-saving blood products are available to those who need them most. Blood Assurance is such a dedicated community partner that the organization serves as the primary supplier for most hospitals in the region, including all Level I trauma centers in Chattanooga, providing critical support for emergencies, surgeries, cancer treatments, and trauma care.

“We’re here to ensure that when patients need blood, it’s available. It's really a community partnership as well as an effort to help save lives,” says Clif Redish, Director of Community Relations & Outreach for Blood Assurance. “All donations made to Blood Assurance remain local, meaning that donations made in Nashville, Robertson County, or elsewhere go to local hospitals, assisting communities when they need it most.”

Currently, Blood Assurance operates 15 fixed locations and 19 bloodmobiles — mobile units that bring donation opportunities directly to communities. These efforts make it easier for donors to give blood, regardless of where they live. The organization is also a proud member of the American Association of Blood Banks, the Tennessee Hospital Association, as well as additional state and national health groups, further solidifying its role as a key player in healthcare across the region.

To state the importance of blood donation, just one donation has the potential to save up to three lives. This impacts the health and safety of not only strangers, but also family members, friends, and neighbors. In this manner, every donation makes a direct and tangible difference in someone’s life.

“Whether it’s for an emergency surgery, a cancer treatment, or a trauma situation, each donation is a vital resource,” Redish says.

As Blood Assurance relies on the support of the community to continue its mission, there are a variety of ways for individuals and groups to make a lasting impact:

1. Donate Blood: Regular donations are crucial in maintaining a steady supply of blood for hospitals. Scheduling a donation is simple—just visit www.bloodassurance.org/schedule to find a nearby location or mobile unit.

2. Host a Blood Drive: Engaging your workplace, school, or place of worship in hosting a blood drive is a great way to mobilize the community. Blood Assurance

provides all the necessary resources to make the process seamless. More details can be found at www.bloodassurance.org/host-blood-drive.

3. Spread the Word: Raising awareness about the importance of blood donation can encourage more people to take action. Follow Blood Assurance on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok to help spread the word.

The successful efforts of Blood Assurance are made possible because of compassionate individuals who recognize the power of one simple act: donating blood. Every donation, blood drive hosted and post shared on social media strengthens the community and ensures that hospitals in the region are always prepared to save lives.

“By coming together to donate, host, and share the importance of blood donation, we create a stronger, healthier community,” Redish adds. “Together, we can ensure that lifesaving blood is always available—because when you give, you’re not just donating blood; you’re giving hope, health, and a future.”

For more information or to get involved, contact Clif Redish at 423-582-8752 or via email at clifredish@bloodassurance.org.

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