EVANS, Ga. – As the Masters Tournament draws near, local blood centers are facing a critical challenge: a drop in donations. The Shepeard Community Blood Center, which serves the CSRA, is calling for help from the community to ensure that there is a steady supply of blood for local patients during this busy time.

Benjamin Prijatel, CEO of Shepeard Community Blood Center, explained that this time of year often sees a dip in blood donations as many regular donors head out of town for spring break or family vacations. With many people leaving the area for the Masters Tournament, the need for blood donations becomes even more urgent.

“We need a steady stream of donors at Shepeard Community Blood Center because in our community, here in the CSRA, we have a constant need from our blood recipients,” Prijatel said. “What we’re worried about is having enough donors to show up at our blood donor centers in order to give blood.”

The situation becomes particularly concerning during the Masters week, as many locals take time off or leave town for the tournament. Prijatel is urging eligible individuals to make an extra effort to donate before the event, to ensure that there is enough blood available for those in need.

“If you’re eligible and able to donate, we would ask that you make that extra effort to donate ahead of the Masters tournament because there’s so many people that are in our community who won’t be here to pitch in,” he said.

For those who remain in the area, the opportunity to donate remains available throughout the week. Blood donor centers in Evans, Augusta, Grovetown, and Aiken will be open during normal business hours, making it easy for residents to donate even during their lunch breaks. The local community is encouraged to take a few minutes to give blood, knowing that each donation could potentially save a life.

Prijatel emphasized that there is a need for both regular and new donors to help fill the gap left by those who will be away during this time. “Evans, Augusta, Grovetown, Aiken – there’s a place not far from wherever you are, that you can really go and save a life on your lunch break,” he said.

With the Masters Tournament fast approaching, Shepeard Community Blood Center is urging all eligible donors to contribute before leaving town, ensuring that the blood supply remains strong for the entire community.