The Ipswich Lions will sponsor a blood drive on Thursday, Jan. 20 at Father Bormann Hall from 12 to 4:30 p.m.

Donors can make an appointment to give blood online at www.vitalant.org or by calling (877) 258-4825.

First time donors are always welcome.

Before you donate:

• Eat a healthy, low-fat meal within two hours of your donation. The day before, eat a salty snack. When you donate blood, you lose about a gram of salt. Replacing it ahead of time helps keep your blood pressure normal.

• Hydrate by drinking 8 to 16 ounces of non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages one hour before yo...