The holiday season is here, and with it comes the exchange of gifts amongst family and friends. But many hospital patients have a gift on their wish list this year that only generous hearts can give: a blood donation.

The American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 26, at the Mower County Red Cross office, 305 Fourth Ave. NW in Austin, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the LeRoy Community Center, 204 W Main St.

Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information.