Jefferson County residents have two good reasons to get out of the house on Veterans Day this year. On Wednesday, November 11, the community has back-to-back opportunities to give back — through blood donation at Crooked River Ranch and through cultural celebration and a free meal at St. Charles Madras.

Blood Drive at Crooked River Ranch Fire Station

Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a community blood drive on November 11, beginning at 11 a.m. at the Crooked River Ranch fire station.

Blood supply shortages remain an ongoing challenge for regional healthcare systems. The American Red Cross has repeatedly called for increased donations in recent years to keep hospital blood banks at safe operational levels. St. Charles Health System, which serves Jefferson County through St. Charles Madras, relies on a consistent regional donor base.

Donors should:

  • Bring a valid photo ID
  • Eat a good meal beforehand and stay well-hydrated
  • Schedule an appointment in advance at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS
  • Wear a short-sleeved shirt or clothing with sleeves that roll up easily

All blood types are needed, with O-negative — the universal donor type that can be given to any patient regardless of blood type — in particularly high demand. The entire donation process takes approximately one hour from check-in to completion.

Native Market and Free Community Meal at St. Charles Madras

Later that same morning, St. Charles Madras will host the Native Market and Community Meal from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with vendor tables set up inside the hospital's main entrance.

Local artisans and vendors will offer a variety of goods including jewelry, traditional clothing, handcrafted items, and food products. The market provides an opportunity to shop from tribal community members and support Indigenous-owned businesses in Jefferson County.

Alongside the market, St. Charles will host its Together at the Table community meal — free and open to all. Fry bread tacos and traditional cultural foods will be served starting at 11 a.m. The meal is a welcoming, no-cost event meant to bring people together across the Madras community.

The Native Market and meal reflect the significant presence of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs in Jefferson County life. Events like this one bridge the tribal community and the broader Madras area and are a recurring highlight in the county's community calendar.

Plan Your Day

Veterans Day is a federal holiday. County offices, the post office, and most banks will be closed. Schools in Jefferson County School District will also observe the holiday. Both events are free to attend, and both are open to the entire community.

For more information on the blood drive, visit redcrossblood.org. For questions about the Native Market, contact St. Charles Madras directly.