According to recent information shared by LifeSouth, national blood shortages are impacting blood centers across the country, and locally LifeSouth Community Blood Centers also faces emergency need for all blood types.

Summer months take a toll on the blood supply, and this year has been especially difficult in north Alabama and across the country, according to LifeSouth. Hospitals across the region rely on LifeSouth and LifeSouth blood donors to make sure blood is available before it is needed.

All blood types are necessary, and donors are asked to donate now to ensure local hospitals have the blood needed to help patients suffering from traumas, cancers and chronic illnesses.

First-time donors are always welcome and encouraged to give blood donation a try. 

Donors must be at least 17 – or 16 with parental permission – weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good health. A photo ID is also required.

LifeSouth’s donor centers are in Albertville, Huntsville, Madison, Decatur and Florence, but although Franklin County is not home to a donor center, there are still opportunities to give blood. LifeSouth’s bloodmobiles will be at several locations across the county in coming days:

• • Aug. 2

Noon to 7 p.m.

Walmart, 13675 Highway 43, Russellville

• • Aug. 17

8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Watermelon Festival, downtown Russellville

• • Aug. 21

11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Big Star, 406 4^th St. SW, Red Bay

For additional information about donation or to find a blood drive nearby, call LifeSouth toll-free at 888-795-2707 or visit www.lifesouth.org. Appointments can also be made online.