January is National Blood Donor Month, and LifeSouth Community Blood Centers is celebrating by helping spread awareness toward the importance of giving blood and thanking blood donors. The annual observation honors the selfless blood donors and encourages first-time donors to give the gift of life in the new year.

This year’s celebration is especially important, as blood donors are needed to help offset blood shortages impacting the local community. LifeSouth supplies blood to our local hospitals.  Blood donated with LifeSouth directly helps patients at these hospitals. Blood transfusions are needed every day to help patients suffering from traumas, blood loss during childbirth, cancer, blood disorders and surgeries.

National Blood Donor Month was first celebrated in January 1970, after President Richard Nixon issued a proclamation establishing the observance. Now in its 53rd year, the observance brings attention to the role that blood donors play in public health at a time when many blood centers around the nation experience a supply shortage.

All blood donors in January receive a $20 e-gift card. If a donor gives a double red cell donation or a platelet donation, they will receive an additional $20 e-gift card for their generosity. In addition to the e-gift card, blood donors also receive refreshments, and a mini-physical including cholesterol, iron level, temperature and blood pressure.

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