 Harsh winter weather conditions mean snow and ice on roads and at times some may want to just stay inside. Patients who depend on blood donations are being affected because the winter usually leads to a blood shortage. The Volunteer Group faith in action is encouraging people to check their eligibility and see if they can help by donating blood. Anyone taking certain medication can double check with United Blood Services for clearance to make sure they're still eligible to donate. These local blood drives are really important because that blood stays in this region and helps to stock the local hospitals, the hospitals that we who live here need to go to when there are crises and issues of concerns. Next Monday faith in action along with the Hackensack Hackensack Lions Club is hosting a blood drive in their community building. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.