Buncombe County -- October 19, 2026: Buncombe County is teaming up with the American Red Cross to host a community blood drive on Friday, Oct. 30, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Pack Memorial Library, located at 67 Haywood Street in downtown Asheville.
Donors who step up to give blood ahead of Halloween will receive several seasonal perks, including door prizes, Halloween-themed t-shirts, and gift cards provided by the American Red Cross. Beyond the giveaways, organizers emphasize that each donation serves an urgent local purpose.
According to the American Red Cross, a single blood donation can save up to three lives. Donated blood supports trauma victims, cancer patients, premature infants, organ transplant recipients, and individuals battling life-threatening medical conditions.
“Hosting a blood drive coincides with Buncombe County's core values of giving back to the community,” said Carla Hollar, Swannanoa Library Branch Manager and blood drive organizer. “With a simple blood donation, we can save the life of a coworker, loved one or neighbor.”
Hollar noted that her personal commitment to donating began early. “My grandmother had leukemia and her experience convinced me to donate, starting as a teenager,” she shared.
The Red Cross welcomes all blood types, noting a critical need for:
Type O Negative: The universal blood type, essential for emergency trauma care when a patient’s blood type is unknown.
Type B Negative
Type A Negative
How to Participate
Date: Friday, Oct. 30, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Location: Pack Memorial Library, 67 Haywood St., Asheville, NC
Appointments:Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visitredcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code buncombecounty.
Walk-ins: Walk-in donors are welcome throughout the event.