EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – Rideshare service Lyft announced they will be offering free rides, up to $15 each way, to blood donation centers by using the code ELPRELIEF19.
EARLIER: The El Paso community is encouraged to donate blood following the tragic shooting at the Cielo Vista Walmart store on Saturday.
According to a Facebook post, all three Vitalant locations in El Paso will be open until 5 p.m. Saturday and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday to help the victims of the shooting.
Officials say the local center has sent 90 units of blood to one of the hospitals treating those injured in the attack.
Several other medical centers are also in contact with Vitalant to request additional blood, according to the post.
The extended hours will be in place at the following locations:
- East El Paso: 1338 N Zaragoza
- West El Paso: 424 S Mesa Hills Dr
- Las Cruces: 1200 Commerce Dr
“Blood needs will continue and having the supply spread out will ensure that there is blood on hand, ready and waiting, when and where patients need it,” the organization wrote.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, click HERE.
A blood drive will also be held at the Mesilla Valley Mall food court in Las Cruces on Saturday and Sunday, according to the Las Cruces Police Department.
Vitalant is reporting an overwhelming response at its local centers.
Officials tell KTSM it has given approximately 200 units of blood to area hospitals, a large increase from its typical 80 units.
The organization says it has not seen a response like this since after the September 11 attacks.
