The Sept. 12 Mathews community blood drive resulted in the collection of 68 units, according to American Red Cross volunteer Nan Cross.

Sixty-five potential donors attended the drive, which was held in the Piankatank Ruritan Club building in Hudgins. Several people were deferred for medical reasons or unable to give complete donations; however, 10 provided Double Red donations to boost the totals.

First-time donors at the drive included Katie Meany, Laura Cross and Blair Templeton, with Bruce Wilds, Shannon Wilkins, Laura Cross and Lawrence Kennedy giving for the first time in Mathews.

Gallon pins were awarded to Coles Buchanan, Cela Knebl and Catherine Owens (one gallon); Marian Festa (two gallons); Marti Bowen (three gallons); Jennifer Mullins (four gallons), Wendy Turner, Eric Petitpierre and Donald Ingersoll (five gallons) and Alan Kinker (14 gallons).

The next Mathews community blood drive will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 5.
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