As local blood supplies fall into a critical shortage, Madison Regional Health System, and Community Blood Bank will host an urgently needed blood drive next week.

The blood drive  will be held Monday, August 3rd, and Tuesday, August 4th, from 7:30am to 10:30am, and from noon to 3pm, both days. 

All blood types are urgently needed, says Ken Versteeg, Executive Director of Community Blood Bank. Versteeg says that patients in the community are depending on the generosity of their neighbors. 

Donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 with a signed parental consent form. They must weigh 110 lbs or more, be in good general health, eat well and stay hydrated, and bring a valid ID.

Donor registration next week will  be located inside the entrance to the Madison Regional Health System cafeteria.