Bloodworks Northwest struggles to keep blood inventory at sufficient levels during this time of year.

Historically, blood donations decrease by 25 percent during the winter months, resulting in blood inventory levels dipping to an emergency low.

In an effort to maintain an adequate blood supply through the tough winter months, Bloodworks Northwest and the Haselwood Auto Group in Bremerton are offering blood donors who come into any Bloodworks Northwest donor center or blood drive between now and March 17, a chance to win a new car.

Each time a person donate, they will be automatically entered for a chance to win – not just any car – but a choice among nine pre-selected new vehicles in the Haselwood Auto Group inventory.

“Bloodworks Northwest and the Haselwood Auto Group are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others,” said Curt Bailey, president and CEO, Bloodworks Northwest. “We’re both on a mission to better our community, especially now when bad weather makes it hard for donors to travel.”

Donating blood only takes one hour from registration to cookie. Most people in good health, at least 18 years old, and weighing at least 110 pounds, may donate whole blood every 56 days as long as they meet other donor criteria. Every pint donated has the potential to help three people at hospitals across the Pacific Northwest, including Harrison Medical Center in Silverdale and Naval Hospital Bremerton. Patient being treated for cancer, surgery or trauma rely on donated blood.

Donors can find locations of donor centers, blood drives or make appointments online at BloodworksNW.org/winacar, by calling 800-398-7888, or by texting ‘winacar’ to 91985 to learn more and download the Bloodworks App.