The Sun City Posse is holding a blood drive 8-11:45 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, at its headquarters, 10861 W. Sunland Drive.

There are 56 available slots. If those fill up, Vitalant Blood Donation, the company handling the draw, will add additional spots.

The company has 115 donation sites nationwide and provides blood to about 900 hospitals across the United States.

“All of the blood collected is kept right here in Maricopa County and used by hospitals that are close to the collection site,” said Posse Cmdr. Tina Anderson. “Think about your blood donation helping a little girl taken to the Emergency Room who is in desperate need of a pint of blood or the mother facing a life-altering surgery and blood is her only salvation.”

The commander, who has been on the job since Jan. 1 and replaced outgoing Cmdr. Sarah Davis, also said residents unable to make the February draw, or those who wish to give again, have additional opportunities June 5 and Nov. 6.

Anderson urges all Posse members and Sun City residents to become part of the solution. She said the greatest gift one can give to family members, friends or complete strangers is the gift of life.

Vitalant urges donors not to be afraid and equates the whole procedure to just a “slight” pinch.

The company also has a Super Draw donation if the donor meets the physical criteria required by the company. The Super Draw is important because the donor provides two pints, which means twice the number of bags available for emergencies, surgeries or medical demand.

“I am pleased that Vitalant is again handling this for us. They are a good company that is sensitive to the needs of its donors,” Anderson added.

Call the Posse at 623-972-2555 and speak with Randy Roberts to register, or visit Vitalant.org.