ABERDEEN, S.D. (HubCityRadio.com) – A series of blood drives, including several in the Aberdeen area, are scheduled this month by Vitalant (formerly United Blood Services).

Those drives will get started today with one from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Primrose Retirement Community, 815 N. Second St. Others are scheduled for Doland on Friday, Miller on May 6-7, Hitchcock on May 17, Redfield on May 20, and back in Aberdeen on May 28 at 25 Market St.

Abbie Arneson, Senior Donor Recruiter with Vilalant, said the blood drives take place at certain times with a direct purpose.

She said the May blood drives will help to ensure there is enough blood available through the summer months.

Arneson said that people can actually donate blood throughout the Aberdeen area every single day.

While O negative is the blood type that can help anybody, she said the type that is needed most is the one that is currently in most demand.

To donate blood, volunteers must be at least 16 years old and in good health. Donors can fill out their Health History Questionnaire online at www.bloodhero.com they day of their donation.

Arneson said that blood is always needed to help at the 70 hospitals that Vitalant serves.