The Pat Walker Health Center and the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks are teaming up for a summer blood drive to help save lives in our community.

The "Hometown Heroes Save Lives" blood drive will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday, July 12, at The Wellness Center (in the Garland Avenue Garage). Donors will receive a special t-shirt.

Donating blood, apart from the obvious goal of saving lives, is also great for overall wellness.

"Wellness is all about living life with high levels of awareness, conscious, intentional choice, interconnectedness, love, meaning and purpose," said Dr. Ed Mink, Wellness & Health Promotion director. "Donating blood is a wonderful way to practice wellness in your own life."

Donors should make sure to have their photo ID with them, and eat well and drink plenty of fluids prior to giving blood.