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If you’ve been to a local grocery store over the last week or so, there’s a good chance you saw the LifeSouth bus parked nearby taking donations.

Rhonda Kendrick, who serves as a spokesperson for LifeSouth, said there’s a critical need for all blood types right now. She said that typically happens following the holidays when donations slack off some.

“If everyone who can donate blood donates at least once a year, there would be no blood shortages,” Kendrick said.

It only takes a short time to donate blood, and it could end up saving a life.

When going to donate, the process takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Donors must have a valid driver’s license or identification and if a donor is younger than 16 years old, they must have their parent’s permission. The donor will have a quick physical and will be asked about their medical history and any recent travel.

The donation is about a pint of blood, which is very small in comparison to the body. Sometimes people are lightheaded afterwards, but most people have no side effects. There is staff trained to handle anything that happens. Donors also receive a T-shirt, snacks and juice.

There aren’t too many exclusions to donating but running a temperature or being sick is one of them.

Donors must be at least 17 years of age (or 16 with parental permission), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good health.

A photo ID is required. Blood donations can be made at either a donor center or aboard the bloodmobile. To find a location near you, visit lifesouth.org or call (888)-795-2707.

If you need any extra incentive, from now through Jan. 6, anyone donating to LifeSouth will receive a $10 gift card.

On Saturday, the LifeSouth bloodmobile will be at Wal-Mart in LaGrange from 11 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and at the Loyd Presbyterian Church south of LaGrange from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. EST Sunday.

We urge anyone with a few minutes to spare to donate blood. It won’t take long and it could save a life.