HUDSON – The local police department and American Red Cross are hosting on the town’s semi-annual blood drive next week at the Hudson Community Center.

It will be from noon to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 20.

The drive is one of the largest in the state, said Hudson Police Information Manager Jamie Iskra.

About 300 people usually show up and donate between 250-350 pints of blood, she said.

One of the big draws is hot food from local restaurants and stores, including Uno’s Chicago Grill, T-Bones, Bill Cahill’s Super Subs, Adamo’s Pizza, Valentino’s, Kendall Pond Pizza, Nan King, Rocco’s, Hudson House of Pizza, Sam’s Club and others.

“People like to come out to our blood drive; we actually have hot food, not just crackers and cookies,” Iskra said.

Donors will receive a free coupon for one small blizzard at Hudson’s Dairy Queen and a free T-shirt. The first 100 donors will also get a free carnation from Flowers on the Hill in Hudson. Donors must be at least 17 years old and weigh 110 pounds or more.

Iskra said appointments are recommended. They can be made online at www.givelife.org or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.

Regional blood drive schedule