NATCHEZ &045;&045; Both local hospitals will be holding blood drives next week to counteract the season’s typical decrease in donations and increase in need.

&uot;Our donations have decreased significantly this month and we are struggling to meet our hospitals needs,&uot; said Susan Caine, United Blood Services donor recruitment representative.

UBS is the blood provider for Natchez Regional Medical Center and Natchez Community Hospital and two-thirds of the state’s hospitals.

During critical shortages UBS imports blood from neighboring states, but during national shortages resources are limited, Caine said.

The Natchez Community Hospital Blood Drive will be Monday from noon to 6 p.m. in the bloodmobile. The Natchez Regional Medical Center’s blood drive will beWednesday from noon to 6 p.m. in the Cypress Room on the first floor.

UBS is encouraging local businesses, schools, churches and other organizations to participate.

In order to donate blood you must be 17 or older, weigh at least 100 lbs., and be in good health.

You can donate blood every eight weeks or 56 days.