Cole County EMS and ImpactLife unite for annual Thanksgiving blood drive: Helping two causes, one donation at a time

Jefferson City — On Saturday, Cole County Emergency Medical Services and ImpactLife, a nonprofit community blood center, joined forces for its annual Thanksgiving blood drive and to collect donations for Cole County’s Toys for Tots drive.

According to first responders, one donation can help two or more people. ImpactLife provides blood components to 124 hospitals across the region, and Toys for Tots delivers gifts to roughly 10 million disadvantaged children during the holidays.

Jessica Wieberg, an EMT with Cole County EMS, said it’s important to lend a helping hand this holiday season, whether by donating blood or bringing joy to a child’s face through contributions to Toys for Tots.

Wieberg said helping those in need during this holiday season, whether by donating blood or bringing joy to a child’s face through contributions to the Toys for Tots drive.

“The holiday season is special for everyone. It’s a time for family and get togethers, and we want to make sure not only our families are taken care of, but everyone we touch, whether it’s a simple smile out in the crowd. We truly want the best for our community,” shared Wieberg.

ImpactLife is set to host another mobile blood drive at Boone Hospital Center on November 21, while Cole County EMS will organize a ‘Santa’s Touch-a-Truck’ holiday toys drive on December 9 at Capitol West Christian Church.