Canadian Blood Services says it has an immediate need for blood donations, a need which Shelburne area residents will have a chance to help meet next week.

"Based on our forecasts over the next four weeks, we expect patients in hospitals across Canada to need over 63,000 units of blood," the service said in a news release. "Unfortunately, that's more than we expect to collect. We need help, today."

To book an appointment at next Tuesday's clinic at the Centre Dufferin Recreation Complex, call 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888- 236-6283).

The need for blood never takes a vacation.

"Summer is a particularly challenging time of year to collect blood, since donors change their routines, take vacations, travel and are distracted with outdoor activities," the blood service said. "But the need for blood does not take a vacation. As cancer treatments continue, and more people on the roads and waterways result in more accidents, having enough blood is vital."

The clinic at CDRC will run from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The agency suggests readers share the message with family, friends and colleagues, "so they too can donate."