Mississippi Blood Services (MBS) is asking the community to donate blood now — especially those with O Positive and O Negative blood types — following the activation of the national Blood Emergency Readiness Corps (BERC) in response to the mass shooting that occurred early Sunday morning in Austin, Texas.
Events like this place sudden strain on the blood supply, requiring additional red blood cell units to treat injured patients and replenish hospital inventories. As a result, MS Blood Services is among 12 blood providers across the country that have been asked to ship blood components as part of the Blood Emergency Readiness Corps activation called on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
Through the Blood Emergency Readiness Corps, blood centers across the country work together to support communities during large-scale emergencies by ensuring hospitals have the blood they need when it matters most.
“The events in Austin are a reminder of how important it is to have a strong and ready blood supply,” said Christopher Swafford, CEO of Mississippi Blood Services. “Donations made today help ensure we are prepared to respond — both to emergencies like this and to the everyday needs of patients here at home.”
“Our hearts are with our close neighbors in Austin and with our partners at We Are Blood as they care for those affected by this tragic mass shooting,” said Audra L. Taylor, Chief Operating Officer, South Texas Blood & Tissue. “In moments like this, the strength of the Blood Emergency Readiness Corps is clear.”
O Negative is the universal blood type used in trauma situations when seconds matter. O Positive is the most commonly transfused blood type used in both emergency and routine patient care.
Blood cannot be manufactured — it must come from volunteer donors.
MBS encourages eligible donors statewide — especially those with O Positive and O Negative blood types — to give now. Donations made today help ensure hospitals remain prepared to care for patients both here in Mississippi and beyond.
Donate Today
Find a donation center or mobile blood drive near you:
👉 Visit msblood.com
📞 Call 601-368-2673
Donation opportunities are available statewide.
