This article was originally published on nooga.com

Regional blood donation center Blood Assurance is launching the #BAChampion initiative with local businesses and organizations to educate the community on the importance of donating blood. 

The nonprofit seeks community partners for each month of the year to help in the mission. The January partner is Chick-fil-A. 

"It is a pleasure to serve our communities as Chick-fil-A operators," Mitch Collins, Chick-fil-A operator for Chattanooga, said in a prepared statement. "During the time of need for the kids and family from Woodmore, we were proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with Blood Assurance and many other organizations. This is our way of showing we care, as our thoughts and prayers are with those still grieving from this tragedy."

Part of the initiative will be monthly themed events and giveaways while working with partners to achieve the daily blood supply goals needed to support local hospital patients. The organization relies on 540 blood donors every day to meet the needs of more than 76 health care facilities serviced by the organization. 

"We want to continue sharing the message that just one blood donation can help save three patients’ lives, and we look forward to partnering with businesses and organizations in the community who will help deliver this message," said Jay Baumgardner, executive director of marketing and communications for Blood Assurance. "Blood Assurance is so thankful to Chick-fil-A for stepping up as our first #BAChampion, and we look forward to cultivating new relationships within each of our markets."

To learn more about being a #BAChampion, call 423-752-5926 or click here