Officials say there is more demand now, with fewer donors giving.

Donations of blood support emergency needs and surgeries at our local hospitals.

Two hundred fifty pints per day are needed, but that's not what is being collected.

UBS officials say it only takes about an hour to donate a pint of blood.

Meridian's collection center at Bonita Lakes Circle, next to TJ Maxx, is open seven days a week. Phone 601-482-2482.