United Blood Services says surgeries are having to be postponed because there's not enough blood available in this area.

UBS says it needs all types, but especially type O blood, both negative and positive, and blood platelets.

Hospital Services manager Ralph Henson said it's an ongoing need that has reached a critical stage this summer.

"We need your help. Now we are offering a special through Dec. 15, we give away a year's supply of gasoline to somebody that will be chosen. And we're doing this to say, come give blood," said Henson. "But we want to encourage you to do it because it's good for the community. It helps us. It saves lives."

A Newscenter 11 viewer recalled how the community turned out in overwhelming numbers to donate blood five years ago after the Lockheed shootings. He said giving blood now would be a great way to pay tribute to the victims.

UBS is open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday;
Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. It's located at 1115 25th Avenue in Meridian.