LITTLE ROCK - Our Blood Institute is kicking off the new year with hope, heart and a major $5,000 giveaway.
From now through Jan. 12, every donor will be entered to win $5,000 to begin 2026 on a brighter note. This includes the Jan. 5 Hop on Pop Memorial Blood Drive to be held at Rison Baptist Church.
Whether the prize helps cover bills, supports a project or simply offers peace of mind, one lucky donor will start the year with a meaningful boost.
This campaign also brings hope to a young girl battling leukemia, whose family will receive $5,000 toward medical expenses.
Donors will take home a retro-inspired GIVE HOPE long-sleeved T-shirt, complete with an interactive QR code that links to encouraging messages.
The long-sleeve version of the shirt will be available through Jan. 12, followed by a short-sleeve version for the remainder of the month.
Additionally, green paper hearts are available at our donor centers, allowing donors to write messages of hope and encouragement for patients in local hospitals. These notes will be shared with patients and families as a reminder that their community is thinking of them and rooting for their recovery.
“When you give blood, you’re doing more than helping patients; you’re sharing hope,” said Dr. John Armitage, president and CEO of Our Blood Institute. “Each donation represents a spark of compassion and community that connects us all. This campaign is about celebrating that energy and reminding donors that their generosity has real power.”
Anyone who is healthy and 16 years old* or older can give blood. Donation typically takes only about an hour, and one donation saves up to three lives. Appointments to donate can be made online at obi.org or by calling 877-340-8777. Walk-ins are also welcome.
'16-year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds and provide signed parental permission; 17year-olds must weigh at least 125 pounds; 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds. Photo ID required.
Our Blood Institute is the sixth-largest independent blood center in the nation, with 17 donor centers in Oklahoma, Arkansas and Texas. OBI is the nonprofit blood provider for patients at more than 240 hospitals, medical facilities and air ambulances across all three states.
The Hop on Pop Memorial Blood Drive will return to Rison, Monday, Jan. 5 from 2 to 6 p.m. at Rison Baptist Church.
To make an appointment, call 877-340-8777 or visit obi.org
Donors will receive a free t-shirt as well as tickets for entry to the Museum of Discovery and a bundtlet from Nothing Bundt Cakes.
In conjunction with the drive, Rison Shine Community Development, Inc. will host a BBQ dinner fundraiser from 4 to 6 p.m.
$10 BBQ tickets include a pulled pork sandwich, chips and a dessert.
Tickets can be purchased at the Cleveland County Herald office, 215 Main Street, or by calling one of the following: Kristy Strother (870) 550-0071, Keden Shrum (870) 461-0762, Douglas Boultinghouse (870) 510-2433, Stacy Walz (870) 818-4883, Roy Phillips (870) 461-0581.