Give the gift of blood this holiday season.

Between the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we often lose sight of the importance of donating blood in a time when people need it the most. During this season, donating blood often takes a backseat to spending quality family time, Black Friday shopping and homemade cooking.

However, more blood is needed during this time of year.

According to a press release from the American Red Cross, the icy road conditions present during this time of year plus an increase in the number of people drinking and driving results in more car accidents and therefore a need for more blood between the months of December and February.

Eligible donors with every blood type are needed, including O negative, B negative, A negative and AB blood types, according to the release.

If we take the time now and donate blood before the start of the holiday season, we can make a difference in many peoples lives and make the difference between life or death.

We often fall under the assumption that many people are donating blood throughout the year, so it’s not necessary for us to do so. However, if we all think that way, blood will soon become scarce in hospitals across the country.

The holiday season is a time for celebration and as long as we have plenty of blood available in hospitals, we can ensure that people who experience life-threatening accidents during this time have a higher chance of recovery and can enjoy the rest of the holiday season.

Donating has never been easier.

Download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment today. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.

The Picayune Blood Center is located at 318 Memorial Blvd. For more information, call the center at 601-798-9693.