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 overnight.

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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.

Donors may call this toll-free number, 877-827-4376, or visit UnitedBloodServices.org to make a convenient appointment to donate.

“When tragedy strikes, it’s the blood on the shelves that saves lives,” said Linda Grace, Sr. Donor Recruitment Rep, 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!” Grace 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 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.

United Blood Services Donation Center   2020 W. Beauregard  San Angelo, TX
Hours of Operation:  Mon, Tues and Thurs          Noon – 6pm

Wed & Fri                          8am – 1.30pm

Sat                                    9am – 1.30pm

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. United Blood Services has been this area’s non-profit community blood provider since 1956, and serves patients in eight hospitals in 11 counties.  The United Blood Services network is one of the nation’s oldest and largest non-profit blood service organizations, and is a founding member of America’s Blood Centers and the AABB, formerly the American Association of Blood Banks.

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