SPANISH FORT, Ala. — Shoppers putting the finishing touches on their Easter ensembles at the Eastern Shore Centre April 3 will also have a chance to spread a little holiday cheer while saving lives.

The American Red Cross Gulf Coast Region will host “Bunnies for Babies” from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. outside Old Navy in the Spanish Fort shopping center.

For every unit of blood collected, account manager Gina Powell said a stuffed bunny will be donated to either Mary’s Shelter in Elberta or South Baldwin Regional Medical Center’s pediatric ward.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to save a life, and put a smile on  a child’s face,” Powell said, noting donors will also receive Red Cross T-shirts and be entered to win a cruise for two.

According to its Web site, Mary’s Shelter provides residential care for pregnant women who lack suitable housing or favorable familial relationships.

Although the blood services organization has hosted “Bunnies for Babies” events across the region for the past five years, Powell said this is the first time the blood drive has been offered in Spanish Fort.

“We typically host one event in Baldwin County at First Baptist Church of Foley and one in Mobile at Bel Air Mall, but we’ve had a lot of requests from people wanting to host drives, and this is a great, seasonal way to get involved,” she said.

A goal of 35 units has been set for Saturday’s drive.

Although there is not currently a critical need for any particular blood type, Powell said demand is strong across the board, and both type O negative and O positive are always needed.

“Fortunately, we don’t have any critical needs today, but that could change tomorrow,” Powell said.

Prodisee Pantry will also be accepting canned foods and donations during the five-hour event.

Deann Servos, the pantry’s executive director, said the invitation to participate was welcome because the demand for emergency food services continues to increase.

“There’s always a need for blood, and it doesn’t cost a thing to donate it, so for families who aren’t in a position to donate financially, this is one way they can lift their spirits. For us, it’s just to get out and help another nonprofit,” Servos said. “It’s a real positive for Baldwin County when we can all work together and build a stronger community base.”

Demand for the pantry’s services increased 73 percent in the first quarter compared to the first three months of 2008, Servos said, with more than 1,600 families served to date.

“The economy is still really struggling here,” she said.