January 16, 2026- As hospitals across the country continue to experience a critical blood shortage, Mississippi Blood Services (MBS) is expanding donation opportunities to make it easier for healthy donors to give. During National Blood Donor Month, MBS will offer extended Sunday hours on Sunday, January 18, from 10 AM to 5 PM, at the Flowood Donation Center.
The special hours are part of MBS's ongoing efforts to open doors for more donors to help meet lifesaving needs at a time when blood supplies nationwide remain strained due to seasonal illnesses, weather disruptions, and reduced donor turnout.
To thank donors who step up during this critical time, whole blood donors will receive:
• $20 Visa® Gift Card
• Tote Bag
• TRIPLE ENTRY for a chance to win 1of FOUR 60" flat-screen TVs, just in time for Super Bowl Sunday!
"Blood shortages are being felt nationwide, and Mississippi is no exception," said Kasey Dickson, Director of Marketing and Public Relations at Mississippi Blood Services. "Hospitals rely on a steady blood supply every single day, and extending our Sunday hours helps remove barriers for donors who want to give but may not be able to donate during the week. This is about creating more opportunities for healthy donors to make a lifesaving impact when it matters most."
Blood donations of all blood types are urgently needed to support patients statewide, including trauma victims, cancer patients, surgical patients, and those with chronic illnesses. Expanded hours allow donors to give at a convenient time while directly helping stabilize the blood supply during a critical period.
