Vitalant (formally United Blood Services) today announced an urgent appeal for blood donations to help patients in other parts of the country where blood supplies are falling short.

Community blood drives Wednesday, January 30 at WNMU, Thursday, January 31st NOX Fit, Friday, February 1 Gila Regional, and Saturday, February 2 at Wal-Mart. Donors may call (575) 527-1322 or visit www.vitalant.org to make a convenient appointment to donate.

“Most people have family and friends scattered across the country, and we’ve seen news stories that patients in some areas may be asked to postpone surgeries,” said Monique Hilverding, Sr. Donor Recruitment Representative  of Vitalant, this area’s non-profit community blood provider.

“We’re asking donors to step forward to make sure there's more than enough blood to meet local needs so we can offer help to patients in other parts of the country.”

Volunteer blood donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional height/weight requirements apply to donors 22 and younger, and donors who are 16 or 17 must have signed permission from a parent or guardian. 

“We encourage people to donate blood in the next few days, to take advantage of the opportunity to give a gift that will make a real difference in someone’s life. The priceless gift of life costs nothing but about an hour of your time,” Hilverding  said.