Blood donors needed

As many families travel for spring break, Mississippi Blood Services is asking community members across the state to donate blood as seasonal travel and school closures often lead to a drop in donations while hospital demand remains constant.

Blood cannot be manufactured and must come from volunteer donors. With donations declining during spring break, all blood types are needed to help ensure hospitals have the lifesaving blood supply patients depend on every day.

To donate locally, drop by one of the following locations: Ramey’s Marketplace, Monticello, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 13; Rudolph Foods, New Hebron, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 17; Lawrence County Hospital, Monticello, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., March 18; and North Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, New Hebron, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., March 22.

All donors will receive a special thank-you gift at the time of donation.

Walk-ins are always welcome. For a full list of statewide donation opportunities, visit: msblood.com/march-mobile-drives or call 601-368-2673.