NATCHEZ — According to America’s Blood Centers, more than 40,000 units of donated blood are used each day in the United States and Canada.

But of 37 percent of the population who are eligible to donate blood, less than 10 percent do on regular basis. The summer months usually signify a decline in blood donations since children are out of school, families are on vacation and summertime activities take up the busy schedules of most people.

Unfortunately, the need for blood never slows down. Mississippi hospitals need an average of 225 units each day. That’s over 82,000 units each year.

Mississippi Blood Services’ mission is to ensure a safe and adequate blood supply to its hospitals so that patients will have blood when they need it.

The community of Natchez will have a blood drive sponsored by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Iota Sigma Chapter and the Adams County Sigma Beta Club on June 27.

The blood drive will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mississippi Blood Services will have a donor coach parked at Walmart in Natchez. All donors will receive a T-shirt and will be registered for a chance to win one of several giveaways.

“One in seven people admitted to a hospital will need blood,” said Tony Bahou, MBS communications and public relations manager. ”

All donors must be at least 17-years-old, weigh at least 110 pounds and have a valid identification.

MBS offers a “mini physical” before each donation to ensure the donation process is safe for the donor as well as the recipient.

Please visit our Web site at www.msblood.com or call 1-888-90-BLOOD (902-5663) for more information about donating.

For more information about the upcoming blood drive, visit our Web site or call 1-800-817-7449.