Local blood bank urging residents to help Orlando shooting victims
HATTIESBURG, Miss. - This is a press release from United Blood Services.
United Blood Services centers have sent blood to Florida to help save the lives of the dozens of people injured in the mass shooting in Orlando Saturday.
United Blood Services is calling on area donors to replenish the local supply and help assure there is blood on hand should the Orlando community need additional help.
“When tragedy strikes, it’s the blood on the shelves that saves lives,” said Mitzi Breaux, Marketing and Communications Manager of United Blood Services. “That’s why we rushed to help the Orlando community and why we are asking donors now to replenish this area’s blood supply.”
“Every 2-to-3 seconds in this country, someone needs blood. And you never know when you or someone you love will be the one. We all expect blood to be available when we need it, but only a few of those who can give actually roll up their sleeves. It’s time for everyone to get involved!” Breaux said.
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 years old must have signed permission from a parent or guardian. Donors can save about 20 minutes by completing their Fast Track Health History the day they donate. It’s at www.UnitedBloodServices.org.
Those who would like to help can donate at United Blood Services donor center located at 805 S. 28th Avenue in Hattiesburg. The donor center accepts donations everyday of the week, except Thursday. Donors may call our toll-free number, 877-827-4376, or visit www.UnitedBloodServices.org to make a convenient appointment to donate.
Although the US Food and Drug Administration recently changed its guidance about blood donation by men who have had sex with men, United Blood Services is still in the process of changing its computer system to address the change, and currently must defer men who have had sex with men.
