SEBRING — Florida’s Blood Centers-Highlands is extending its hours today due to the blood supply being critical and hospital usage high, according to Deah Spires, donor development coordinator.

All blood types are needed and any one who is eligible is urged to donate.  Hospitals are transfusing blood at an alarming rate due to the combination of traffic accidents, spring break and a considerable number of emergency surgeries. Low blood supplies can lead to postponing of critical medical treatments if supplies are not replenished.

The blood supply nationally is also under strain and Florida’s Blood Centers, along with other blood banks, are not able to bring blood into the area to relieve the critically low supplies in Florida.

Florida’s Blood Centers and its corporate partner, Darden Restaurants, are asking people to come to branch locations to donate as soon as possible. Donors will receive a $20 restaurant gift certificate for donating at branch locations only.  ( It is good at all Red Lobster, Olive Garden, Smokey Bones, Bahama Breeze and Season’s 52 Restaurants.)

The branch in Sebring is located at 6550 U.S. 27 N., across from Quality Inn. It will be open today from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. 
Call 382-4499 for more information.