Urgent need for blood donors

United Blood Services has announced an urgent need for donors with all blood types.

With the winter cold and flu season in full swing, many donors are cancelling their appointments. But if you are feeling healthy and well, and you meet the other blood donation criteria, consider giving at an upcoming United Blood Services drive. Donors with O-, A-, B-, AB- & O+ blood types are needed.

Yuma-area drives coming up include:

– Martinez Lake: Jan. 22, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Fortuna Palms Community Club, 10812 Avenue 14E

– Yuma: Jan. 24, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at City Hall, 1 City Plaza

There is also a drive on Jan. 30, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Border Patrol station in Ajo.

United Blood Services is Arizona's largest nonprofit community blood provider, filling the transfusion needs of 58 hospitals, including Yuma Regional Medical Center. For a donation appointment, visit www.bloodhero.com or call 1-877-UBS-HERO (827-4376).