UNC blood drive aims to get at least 1,000 donations

One of the largest blood drives in the country is taking place today at UNC-Chapel Hill.

The 33rd Annual Carolina Blood Drive runs from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday at the Smith Center.

Organizers are hoping for more than 1,000 donations. Walk-ins are welcome.

"Last year was the largest single-day blood drive in the entire country during the COVID-19 pandemic," said Jen Deneal. "People were lining up outside the door just before 7 this morning so we're expecting a lot of positive energy and a lot of blood."

The pandemic has left communities across the state in need of blood. Officials are hoping for Type-O blood donations on Tuesday.