Ventura, CA. - United Blood Services Central Coast is continuing its appeal for all blood types, especially O-Negative. With the recent rains, donations have dipped when supplies were already strapped.

The blood bank has launched its annual Heart to Heart Blood Drive to encourage donations. As a special thank you, United Blood Services has teamed up with See’s Candies to provide donors with a 4-ounce box of Sees chocolates.

January also marks National Blood Donor Month. “January is usually an especially difficult time as we go into the cold and flu season,” notes Scott Edward, of United Blood Services. “We’d ask that anyone that is feeling well, to visit us in January and consider making a resolution to give three times in 2010. We would be especially grateful if businesses and community groups would hold at least three drives per year. That would be ideal to maintain a steady supply.”

Businesses and organizations are asked to call the Ventura Center at 654-1600 if interested in scheduling a community blood drive.

Donations may be made Monday through Friday at UBS Center in Ventura at 2223 Eastman near McGrath. Or there are a number of blood drives happening throughout the region. Appointments are appreciated, but not necessary. Walk-ins are also welcome. Donors are asked to make an appointment by contacting United Blood Services online at www.Blood4Life.org. Just click on the “Donate Blood” tab and type in your zip code for a list of drives. Donors may also call 800-715-3699 to make an appointment by phone.

Center Hours:
Monday and Tuesday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wednesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

You may donate blood if you are over age 16, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in good health. Additional height/weight requirements apply to donors 22 and younger.