Central California Blood Center Announces Second Annual “Pint for Pancakes” Campaign with Huckleberry’s and Black Bear Diner Popular holiday blood donation campaign returns November 1, offering donors free pancakes while helping save lives Fresno, Calif. — The Central California Blood Center (CCBC) is bringing back its second annual Pint for Pancakes campaign, partnering with Huckleberry’s and Black Bear Diner to give the community a delicious reason to donate blood this holiday season. From November 1 through December 31, 2026, all blood donors who give at a Fresno or Clovis donor center or mobile blood drive will receive a voucher for a free short stack of pancakes, redeemable at Huckleberry’s locations in Fresno and Clovis. Individuals who donate at the Visalia donor center or a South Valley mobile blood drive will receive a voucher redeemable at Black Bear Diner locations in Hanford, Visalia, Tulare, and Porterville. The promotion offers donors a special thank-you for making a lifesaving difference in the community during a time of year when blood donations can decline while the need for blood remains constant. “We are grateful to Huckleberry’s and Black Bear Diner for helping us make blood donation a little more rewarding this holiday season,” said Christine Hayes, President and CEO of Central California Blood Center. “Every blood donation has the potential to help patients facing surgery, trauma, cancer treatment and other medical emergencies. We hope Pint for Pancakes inspires more people to make blood donation part of their holiday tradition.” Special Huckleberry’s Blood Drives on November 12 Huckleberry’s will host mobile blood drives at its Fresno and Clovis locations on Thursday, November 12, beginning at 7:00 a.m. To find Huckleberry’s blood drive locations and times, please visit https://www.donateblood.org/huckleberrys/ . Donors who participate at these mobile drives will receive a special voucher for a Huck’s Combo meal, which includes pancakes, eggs, and bacon.
Community members are invited to roll up their sleeves and help save lives during one of the region’s most anticipated summer blood donation campaigns. As a thank-you for their lifesaving donation, all donors will receive a free pint of Umpqua Ice Cream and a chocolate chip cookie from The Brownie Baker. Donors will also receive a commemorative Pint for a Pint T-shirt while supplies last at donor centers.

This year’s campaign continues its partnership with Umpqua Dairy, a locally owned company operated by Shehadey Family Farms—the same family that owns Producers Dairy—as well as The Brownie Baker. Together, these local businesses are helping raise awareness of the ongoing need for blood donations throughout Central California while rewarding donors for making a lifesaving difference.
 
“For 39 years, Pint for a Pint has brought our community together to help save lives,” said Christine Hayes, president and CEO of the Central California Blood Center. “Whether you're a first-time donor or a longtime supporter, your donation can provide hope and healing to local patients when they need it most. We invite everyone to join us this summer, enjoy a sweet treat, and make a meaningful impact right here in Central California.”
 
To meet the needs of local hospitals and patients, Central California Blood Center must collect 5,000-6,000 units of blood each month. Blood donations are critical for trauma victims, cancer patients, surgical procedures, and individuals living with chronic illnesses.

“Pint for Pancakes is a fun way to bring our community together around two things we can all appreciate — great food and saving lives,” said Ray Tavakoli, President and CEO of participating Huckleberry’s. “We are proud to partner with Central California Blood Center and encourage our guests, employees and neighbors to roll up their sleeves, donate blood and enjoy some pancakes on us.” Black Bear Diner is also encouraging its customers and communities to participate in the campaign. “Black Bear Diner is proud to join Central California Blood Center in encouraging our communities to give the gift of life,” said Amy Rose, Chief Operating Officer of participating Black Bear Diner locations. “A blood donation takes just a small amount of your time but can make an extraordinary difference for someone in need. We are happy to thank donors with a warm stack of pancakes.” The holiday season is a critical time for blood donation. As people become busy with holiday activities, travel and family commitments, blood donations can decrease. At the same time, local hospitals continue to rely on a steady supply of blood products for patients every day. To find a donation location or make an appointment, visit www.donateblood.org or call 559-389 5433. About The Central California Blood Center The Central California Blood Center serves as the region’s vital source of lifesaving blood products, supporting 20 hospitals and healthcare partners throughout Fresno, Tulare, Madera, Kings, and Mariposa counties. Each day, hundreds of local patients depend on blood transfusions for emergency care, surgical procedures, and ongoing medical treatments. In critical moments, the blood readily available on our shelves can make all the difference. By donating, community members provide more than blood—they offer hope, healing, and a second chance to neighbors, friends, and families across the Central Valley. For more information, visit www.donateblood.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn for updates, donor stories, and opportunities to get involved. About Huckleberry’s Huckleberry’s is a popular California breakfast and lunch restaurant known for its generous portions, Southern-inspired comfort food and welcoming atmosphere. Learn more at: www.huckleberrys.com About Black Bear Diner Black Bear Diner is a family-friendly restaurant known for hearty portions, classic American comfort food and its signature bear-themed dining experience. Learn more at: www.blackbeardiner.com