Blood Assurance is preparing for a shortfall of approximately 300 units of type O negative blood over the next two weeks, according to historical data and scheduled deliveries.

To help local hospitals avoid a critical shortage, Blood Assurance is encouraging residents to get in the giving spirit this holiday season. The first five donors at each location on Friday, Nov. 23, will receive a bundle of gift-wrapping supplies.

Bundles include a roll of wrapping paper, 25 name tags tape and ribbon.

For more information about donating blood, please call 1-800-962-0628 or visit bloodassurance.org.

Founded in Chattanooga in 1972, Blood Assurance is a non-profit regional blood center and the sole source of blood donations for more than 50 hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee. Donors must be at least 17-years-old (16-years-old with parental consent) and weigh at least 110 pounds.