Perhaps the greatest gift you can ever give will never be wrapped or placed beneath the Christmas tree.

Although red is the color often associated with the holidays, the crimson color is also symbolic of the blood that is vital to our lives. While the holidays may be a joyous time for many, it is often difficult for the American Red Cross. Officials with the organization often say that the need never goes on holiday while those who selflessly donate do.

An Ironton family is arranging a local blood drive to benefit their patriarch. This offers those who want to give a way to potentially put a face to individuals who will benefit.

The drive will be from 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesday at Sharon Baptist Church in Ironton.

Refreshments are provided.

Donors must be 17 years old or older, or 16 with a parent’s permission, and the donor must weigh at least 100 pounds and be in generally good health.

If this drive doesn’t work, it is easy to find another time and place to give blood by calling 1 (800) Red-Cross, or by visiting the website www.redcrossblood.org

Giving blood is nothing to be afraid of and ultimately takes just a few minutes of your time. It may be cliché to say that donating is giving the gift of life but is also very true.