Hurricane Matthew has halted blood donations in Florida and the blood supply has now reached emergency levels. LifeSouth Community Blood Centers needs help from Alabama blood donors to serve patients in their neighboring state.

“With dangerous weather in Florida causing blood drives to be canceled, we really have some ground to make up,” said JB Bowles, LifeSouth vice president of operations. “We are urging donors to come in and help.”

LifeSouth doesn’t use the word “emergency” lightly. The distinctive yellow and black emergency signs are used only when reserve levels drop to less than a two-day supply. LifeSouth needs to continuously supply the more than 100 hospitals it serves in Florida, Georgia and Alabama.

“This year, many of our communities have been swamped with heavy rain and local flooding, which has made an impact on the blood supply,” Bowles said. “We need platelet donations and all blood types every day, but right now donors are especially needed. If you don’t normally give, now is when we need you most.”

Donors must be 17 or older, or 16 with parental permission, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good health. A photo ID is also needed. A photo ID is also needed. Call LifeSouth’s toll-free number, 1-888-795-2707 or visit www.lifesouth.org to find the closest blood drive or location near you.

For more information contact Melinda Hinds, LifeSouth District Community Development Coordinator at [email protected] 

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