Del Papa Distributing will host its annual "This Blood's For You" blood drives in the Victoria area Friday through Tuesday.

The company has partnered with South Texas Blood & Tissue Center since 2002 to honor first responders and those who died during 9/11.

Allen Schertz, human resources manager, said the drive is timely because it correlates with a major event of American history.

"This is a great thing for us to do annually," he said. The consistent week serves as a reminder.

Blood drives will be at Prosperity Bank El Campo, Victoria Mall, and Donor Coach.

The supply will go to area hospitals.

It takes between 30 and 60 minutes to make a donation. Participants will be rewarded with a thank you gift.

Blood donation is considered a safe activity, according to the blood center, because the materials used are sterile and used once.

Comfort levels vary with each individual, most will feel a slight pinch. It's also advised to rest five to 10 minutes after the donation and replenish your fluids.

The community has to generate 600 pints a day to meet the needs of blood supply in Southern hospitals, according to a news release.

Schertz encouraged people to donate blood if they can. "It's the right thing to do. You save three lives with one pint," he said.

• If you go:

  When: 1:15 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Friday

  Where: Prosperity Bank of El Campo, 1301 Mechanic St., El Campo

  When: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday

  Where: Victoria Mall, 7800 N. Navarro St., Victoria

  When: 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Tuesday

  Where: Donor Coach, 3907 E.. Rio Grande

  For more info: Call Allen Schertz, 361 570-9148 or e-mail Allen.Schertz@delpapabud.com