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 here in Georgia and across the country. Hospitals in the area 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. All donors receive a thank you gift, and a mini-physical, including blood pressure, temperature, iron level and cholesterol screen.

  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 needed.

  The McDonough Donor Center is located at 329 Westridge Parkway in McDonough and can be reached at 678-432-0637.

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