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Special to the Advance

The Poarch Creek Indians joined the American Red Cross Alabama and Mississippi Region to unveil a brand-new mobile blood donation vehicle during a special ribbon-cutting ceremony and community blood drive recently at Wind Creek Casino and Hotel in Atmore.

Funded by a generous donation from the Tribe, the new bloodmobile represents a major step forward in expanding access to lifesaving blood donations across rural and underserved communities in Alabama and Mississippi. Guests at the event had the opportunity to tour the new mobile unit, donate blood, and enjoy lunch at Wind Creek’s buffet, courtesy of the Tribe and Amazon.

“We were honored to welcome the community to Wind Creek for a cause that literally saves lives,” said Tribal Chair and CEO Stephanie Bryan. “This partnership with the Red Cross is about more than a donation—it’s about being there for our neighbors when they need us most.”

The high-tech vehicle, outfitted with the latest medical equipment, will allow the Red Cross to reach more donors at more locations—an effort that will ultimately help save more lives.

“The addition of this new bloodmobile will help us reach more communities, donors and events across Alabama and Mississippi,” said Kelly Hodges, executive director of the Red Cross South Alabama Chapter. “We’re deeply grateful to the Poarch Creek Indians for their continued support of our mission.”

From those who gave blood to those who showed up in support, the event was a meaningful celebration of service, generosity, and community.