Goochland Fire Rescue Hosts Community Blood Drive December 11

Goochland County will host a community blood drive on Thursday December 11 from noon to 5 p.m. at the Goochland Sports Complex, 1800 Sandy Hook Road. The drive was announced by the Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services on November 25 as the first public collection to support the countywide Whole Blood Program.

The Whole Blood Program launched earlier this year through partnerships with Chesterfield Fire and EMS, Virginia State Police EMS Med Flight 1, and Inova Blood Donor Services. Organizers say collecting blood locally will strengthen the county's ability to respond to emergencies and support patients in need. Chief Eddie Ferguson commented on the drive, saying in part, "Blood is the gift of life, the simple act of giving blood can make a huge impact. We are proud to work with Inova Blood Services to collect blood that will directly serve our community."

Appointments are highly recommended to streamline donations and reduce wait times. You can schedule a time slot through Inova Blood Donor Services online at inovabloodsaves.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/35512. Eligible donors are encouraged to participate and to bring necessary identification and any information about recent travel or medications that may affect eligibility.

For Goochland residents this drive offers a convenient opportunity to make a tangible contribution to local health and safety. Donated blood supports trauma care and routine medical treatments, and building a local supply reduces reliance on distant sources during high demand. The partnership with regional emergency services also creates a direct link between donors and the systems that manage critical care.

For further details about the drive or the county program, visit the Goochland County Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services website for updates and guidance on donation eligibility. The December 11 event is the first in what officials describe as ongoing efforts to integrate community donations into local emergency preparedness and patient care.