Entering the new year, LifeSouth Community Blood Centers is encouraging locals to participate in January’s National Blood Donor Month. 

The start of the special month coincided with the attack in New Orleans, and LifeSouth sent blood supplies to help the Louisianna hospitals.  

In a press release, LifeSouth noted that it is the sole provider of blood to UF Health, HCA Florida North Florida Hospital and the VA Medical Center. Local donors are needed to keep the supply at safe levels. 

“It is the donors from yesterday that are the heroes today,” the release said. “Blood donors help to ensure that blood is available when tragedy strikes.” 

During January, LifeSouth asks first-time donors to consider giving life in the new year and thanks regular donors for their contributions. All January donors will receive a LifeSouth sweatshirt and platelet and double red cell donors will also get a $40 e-gift card.