The Community Blood Center of the Carolinas (CBCC) is kicking off 2012 with its Fourth Annual ‘Pint for Pounds’ campaign to support Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. CBCC will donate six pounds of food for every blood donation now through Feb. 29.

“As we roll off the holiday season, we are faced with the shorter days and chilly temperatures of winter which is critical for the people we serve in nineteen area counties,” said Kay Carter, executive director of Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. “We appreciate the amazing blood donors and the Community Blood Center of the Carolinas for their efforts and generosity to help end hunger in our region.”

Since the ‘Pint for Pounds’ campaign began in 2009, CBCC has been able to contribute 130,398 pounds of food to help feed the hungry in our community.

“There are many vital and fundamental needs in our community, the need for blood being just one. Hunger and the food needs of our community is another,” said Martin Grable, president and CEO of Community Blood Center of the Carolinas. “In partnership with our blood donors and sponsors, we look forward to another year of serving our community and helping support the vital work of Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. Please donate blood with CBCC and help feed the hungry in our community.”

For businesses, civic organizations and churches interested in hosting a blood drive with CBCC, call Kim Jones, director of sponsorship development, at 704-972-4727. Those interested in donating blood can do so at one of CBCC’s four donor centers or at a community blood drive (www.cbcc.us/donate).