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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Mississippians urged to donate blood amid critical shortage

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Friday, January 3, 2025   

Holidays are traditionally a slow time for blood donations, but recent events have made the need for people to give blood and plasma in the Magnolia State even more urgent.

Following the deaths and injuries from a terrorist attack in New Orleans in the early hours of New Year's Day, Mississippi officials have pitched in to supply blood for victims of the violence. As a member of the Blood Emergency Readiness Corps, Mississippi Blood Services is supporting the efforts of the Blood Center of New Orleans.

Kasey Dickson, Mississippi Blood Services' director of public relations and marketing, said they have immediate needs.

"We are desperately looking for individuals that are eligible to donate platelets," she said, "as well as individuals with the blood types of O, negative or positive, and B, negative or positive."

Dickson said the agency is contacting its list of regular donors as well as putting out a call for new ones. Donations can be made at the blood centers in Flowood, in Cleveland and Oxford, and at mobile vans around the state. To find one, look online at MSBlood.com or call 888-90-BLOOD (888-902-5663).
Dixon said donors need to be at least 17 years old, be in general good health and complete a health history questionnaire. Approved individuals can donate about every two months, platelets every seven days, and plasma once a month.

"Fortunately, the donors of Mississippi helped get our supply ready, and we were able to ship enough products to assist the Blood Center of New Orleans ahead of time," she said. "And now, we're wanting to replenish our supply, so we can continue those efforts to help them."

Dickson said it was an honor to help another state with blood in its time of need, but added that it's equally important to care for Mississippians. She said people need to remember that blood isn't created, it's given.

"Blood itself can only be donated," she said. "It cannot be manufactured in a tube or re-created in a tube, so it has to be given from person to person."


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