Just two days before Christmas, something truly special unfolded in White House—and it had nothing to do with last-minute shopping bags or wrapping paper. Stay Positive News’ Sleigh the Need Blood Drive, hosted with Blood Assurance on Tuesday, December 23, turned one of the busiest shopping days of the season into an opportunity to give the ultimate gift: hope.

Held from 12–5:30 p.m., the event was made possible thanks to the generosity of the businesses of Deer Crossing, who opened a corner of their parking lot to welcome donors during the holiday rush. Colorado Grill graciously donated their banquet space, Stay Positive News transforming it into a festive, family-friendly experience where giving back felt joyful—not intimidating.

While parents donated blood, kids posed for photos with Santa, decorated Christmas crafts, and enjoyed sweet treats in a warm, welcoming environment designed to make everyone feel at ease.

The impact of the day was immediate and powerful. According to Jason Streger, Donor Recruitment Manager with Blood Assurance, 19 donors participated in the drive—13 of them giving with Blood Assurance for the very first time. In total, 21 units of blood were collected, which can potentially save up to 63 lives. “It was an incredible turnout,” Streger shared, noting how meaningful it was to see so many first-time donors step forward.

That impact extended far beyond the event itself. Garry Allison, Senior VP of Operations at Blood Assurance, later shared his gratitude, calling it an “outstanding blood drive.” He added that team members described the event as exciting and uplifting. Most importantly, the timing mattered. That same evening, Blood Assurance supported a mass trauma patient who required several units of blood. “Your donations truly made an immediate impact,” Allison emphasized.

This life-saving event was made possible by an incredible network of community partners. Special thanks go to the Wix family of Wix Construction and Wix Avenue for sponsoring Santa (who’s already excited to freshen up his suit for 2026), Tony Nelson of Roof Redemption for providing the snack station, and Krisyln’s Kiddos & Furry Friends for sponsoring the craft station.

We’re also grateful to YESCO and Simmons Bank for donating gift baskets valued at over $300 each, Romance & Rust for providing Santa’s couch, and DreamWeaver Balloons for creating a festive balloon backdrop. A heartfelt thank-you goes to White House High School’s HOSA and Beta students, who volunteered their time—on one of the first days of winter break—to help keep everything running smoothly.

Sleigh the Need was a beautiful reminder that when a community comes together, even during the busiest season of the year, the impact can be immediate—and life-changing.