Gilmer Fire and Rescue to host first blood drive

The event aims to boost local blood supplies for emergency medical services.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 2:08pm

Gilmer Fire and Rescue, the local fire department in Ellijay, Georgia, is hosting its first-ever blood donation drive on April 11. The event is being organized by the department's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division and is intended to help boost local blood supplies that can be used for emergency medical response.

Why it matters

Blood donations are crucial for ensuring emergency medical services have the resources they need to respond effectively to accidents, injuries, and other crises. By hosting this drive, Gilmer Fire and Rescue is taking a proactive step to support the community's health and safety.

The details

The blood drive will be held at the Gilmer Fire and Rescue station and will be staffed by trained phlebotomists. The department's EMS Division Fire Chief, Paul Beamon, will be on hand to oversee the event and ensure the blood donations are properly transported and stored for future use.

  • The blood drive is scheduled for April 11, 2026.

The players

Gilmer Fire and Rescue

The local fire department in Ellijay, Georgia that is hosting the blood drive.

Paul Beamon

The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division Fire Chief at Gilmer Fire and Rescue, who is overseeing the blood drive.

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What’s next

The department hopes the blood drive will become an annual event to ensure a steady supply of blood for emergency medical needs in the local community.

The takeaway

By taking the initiative to host a blood drive, Gilmer Fire and Rescue is demonstrating its commitment to supporting the health and safety of Ellijay residents through proactive community engagement.