SOUTHAVEN, Miss. – As the new year begins, nonprofit Vitalant is calling on DeSoto County residents to help replenish a critically low blood supply during National Blood Donor Month. To celebrate the “Spirit of Service” and kick off 2026, Vitalant is offering donors 26 chances to win $500 when they give between now and Feb. 8.
The winter months traditionally see a dip in donations due to holiday travel, school breaks, and seasonal illnesses. However, the need for blood remains constant for patients at local hospitals, including those in Southaven and Olive Branch.
“Donating blood is one of the fastest and most effective ways to give back to your community,” a Vitalant spokesperson said. “Following the holidays, we rely on the generosity of our local donors to ensure that patients undergoing surgeries or battling cancer have the lifesaving products they need.”
Thomas Williams donates during a blood drive.
Local Impact: A Culture of Advocacy
The call for donors is bolstered by stories of local advocacy. Thomas Williams, a regular donor, recently expanded his impact by encouraging coworkers to join him.
“Influencing others to give has become a new passion for me,” Williams said. “If I could get 100 people to donate, think of the number of people I could help.”
Urgent Need for Type O and Platelets
While all blood types are needed, there is a particular urgency for Type O blood and platelets.
Type O: Known as the universal donor, it is used most frequently in trauma situations.
Platelets: Crucial for cancer patients, these cells have a shelf life of only one week, requiring a constant stream of new donations.
Where to Donate in DeSoto County
Residents can visit the Vitalant Southaven Blood Donation Center or attend one of the many mobile drives across the region.
Vitalant Southaven Center
Location: 1055 Goodman Road E., Suite J, Southaven, MS 38671
Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.
