As we enter the season of giving, locals are being strongly encouraged to give the gift of life.

Officials with United Blood Services say there's a long way to go before there's an adequate supply on shelves.

"The people spending time with family and friends shopping, they forget about the need to come in and replenish the supply," said J.W. Chapman of UBS.

UBS needs all types of blood. Chapman says only 5 percent of eligible donors actually give.

"During the holiday season if those 5% are distracted with shopping or family events, you can see where we could come into a shortage fairly quickly," Chapman said.

United Blood Services is trying to entice people to give. For your help you have a chance to win a Guitar Hero II game for the X Box 360.

The Meridian office of United Blood Services serves more than 20 hospitals throughout east Mississippi and west Alabama.

"You never know when you're going to need the blood. You never know when accidents might happen and it's always great to make that effort to replenish the supply," Chapman said.