GRAND ISLAND, Neb. - A central Nebraska hospital is once again receiving platinum recognition from a national organization.

CHI Health St. Francis has received the HRSA Platinum Award for the third consecutive year in recognition for its initiative of helping those in need.

The hospital in Grand Island is also raising a special flag in an effort to highlight its ongoing efforts to give the gift of life through organ donation.

CHI St. Francis President Steve Schieber said the initiative has grown over the years, but hopes more Nebraskans will make the decision to donate. 

"It can really give value to those who have lost a loved one and realize that they can live on in others and that gift of life continues. So it really was something we felt like we could benefit all involved with our focus upon this initiative," he said.

Last year in Nebraska over 300 people received lifesaving organ transplants, and thousands more received tissue transplants.