Due to a nationwide shortage of blood, Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi is asking all healthy community members who are able, to give blood today and Friday at the hospital.

Sickness, inclement weather, cancellations and businesses closing have all contributed to the shortage.

The United Blood Services’ mobile unit is set up in Baptist’s parking lot to the left of the main entrance to the hospital and will take donations today until 3 p.m. and tomorrow from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

No appointment is necessary, and donors can report straight to the mobile unit in the parking lot to give blood.

Donors should be at least 16 years old; however, parental permission is required for those who are under 18 years old. Donors should weigh at least 110