Murfreesboro, TN - The American Red Cross remains critically low on blood, and the Heart of Tennessee (HOT) Chapter in Murfreesboro is calling on the community to help. Located at 501 Memorial Blvd., the local chapter is offering multiple opportunities to donate this fall, with added incentives to encourage participation.

In honor of National Diabetes Awareness Month, all successful blood donors throughout November will receive free A1C testing—a valuable tool used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes. The test measures average blood sugar levels over the past three months and requires no fasting. With over 38 million Americans affected by diabetes—and nearly one in four unaware they have it—this initiative empowers donors to take charge of their health while helping others.

HOT Chapter's Executive Director John Mitchell explained that from October 20 through November 16, donors will be automatically entered into a sweepstakes to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. In addition, every donor during this period will receive $20 in e-gift cards to a merchant of their choice. And from October 27 to November 16, an extra $10 e-gift card will be added—bringing the total to $30 in thank-you gifts for those who step up.

Local donation sites include the Murfreesboro American Red Cross at 501 Memorial Blvd. with various appointment times available, and Middle Tennessee State University at 1848 Blue Raider Drive, hosting the popular Bleed Blue-Beat WKU Blood Drive on Monday, October 27 and Tuesday, October 28 from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Sponsor codes for scheduling are MurfreesboroTN and MTSU, respectively.

This fall, giving blood means more than saving lives—it’s a chance to gain vital health insights and receive meaningful rewards. Phone 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-3767) and schedule an appointment that fits your schedule. Then you'll be a part of the solution.