Carter BloodCare is asking for community support to help boost the area blood inventory level.

It is not unusual that summer is a difficult time of year for blood centers across the nation. However, Carter BloodCare says its current blood inventory is lower than expected - even for a slow time of year.

The routine lag in summer blood donors is understandable: donors take vacations and spend more time with family.

Also, high schools, which are strong supporters of the community blood program, are not in session.

“It is unfortunate, but true,” says Dr. Merlyn Sayers, chief executive officer of Carter BloodCare, “that blood cannot be stockpiled.”

Sayers emphasizes that to continue meeting the summer needs, and especially the need for group O Rh negative (O-), now is the time to give blood.

Potential blood donors must be at least 17 years old or 16 with a parent’s consent, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good general health.

Photo ID is required.

There is no upper age limit for donors and most medications do not interfere with donor eligibility.

For more information or to make an appointment to give blood, call 1-800- DONATE-4 (800-366- 2834) or visit carterbloodcare. org.