This December, Hoxworth Blood Center of the University of Cincinnati issues an invitation to the locals: make your holiday festivities count by donating blood. According to the center, they're infusing traditional giving with a new purpose through a series of holiday-themed events, aptly termed "Holiday Heroes of the Tristate." Whether it's in the warm company of family, meandering through familiar city haunts, or finding a last act of kindness for the year, there seems to be an avenue for everyone to contribute.
In a heartening blend of remembrance and altruism, Hoxworth has slated December 19 to pay tribute to Nicholas Cordrey, a young man who left behind a legacy of life through organ donation after his untimely death in 2020. The call to action is to not only donate blood but also to participate in a hoodie drive supporting young individuals in need of warmth during the winter months. As stated in an article on the University of Cincinnati's website, donors will receive a hero's thanks—a Hoxworth Hero backpack, signaling the center's appreciation for the lifesaving contributions made.
The giving doesn't stop there. Festive donors can look forward to the Jingle Bell Blood Drives at Montgomery Inn: The Boathouse, positioned right on the picturesque riverfront. All donors at these events are set to walk away with some holiday cheer—namely, free admission to the Elm Street Plaza Ice Rink, a holiday T-shirt, and an eGift card. It's looking like the epitome of Cincinnati's famed holiday spirit is being captured in a single, charitable day out.
As 2025 wraps up, a final gesture of goodwill resonates at selected Skyline Chili outlets, where the last donors of the year can earn themselves a "Last Lifesaver of 2025" donor badge, a satisfying snack coupon, and yet another signature Hoxworth Hero backpack. It's hard to split hairs over the center's intention to make every act of giving feel like a personal celebration—even more so at a time when blood donations typically see a downward turn, but the need for them does not. For those looking to score one more good deed under their belt, there's a timeframe from December 21 to January 1, where donations at any Hoxworth location mean getting an additional eGift card.
