The American Red Cross is hitting the road with a new blood donation vehicle, made possible by a gift from the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.

The upgraded bloodmobile, equipped with modern technology and designed to serve rural and underserved communities, will officially debut during a ribbon-cutting ceremony and community blood drive Friday, June 20, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Wind Creek Casino & Hotel, 303 Poarch Road in Atmore.

Hosted in partnership with the Poarch Creek Indians, the event marks a major investment in expanding blood collection efforts across Alabama and Mississippi.

"The addition of this new bloodmobile will help us reach more communities, donors and events across Alabama and Mississippi," said Kelly Hodges, executive director of the Red Cross South Alabama Chapter. "We're deeply grateful to the Poarch Creek Indians for their continued support of our mission."

Stephanie Bryan, Tribal Chair and CEO of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, said the support goes beyond logistics.

"This is more than just a donation, it's a commitment to the health and well-being of our neighbors," Bryan said. "We're proud to support the Red Cross by funding this new bloodmobile and to celebrate its unveiling here at Wind Creek Atmore."

The vehicle will allow Red Cross teams to more efficiently host blood drives in remote areas and at events where on-site donation is needed.

All presenting donors at the June 20 event will receive a complimentary Market buffet voucher from Wind Creek Atmore and a $15 Amazon gift card sent via email.

Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins will be welcomed as space allows. To schedule a blood donation, visit www.RedCrossBlood.org and enter sponsor code: WINDCREEK.