Today from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. a community blood drive will be held at Dockside Seafood and Specialties restaurant.

Dockside Co-Owner Angelle Carbone said the drive will be held in honor of her father Thomas Carbone, Jr. who passed away last year on May 5. Thomas Carbone was an active member of the Rotary Club of Picayune and did a great deal of community service during his life. Angelle Carbone said because her father was a member of Rotary, being selfless and giving back to the community was a priority for him.

“He always gave back in very quiet ways,” Carbone said.

Carbone said her niece, Magen Carbone, came up with the idea for a public blood drive. She said Magen wanted to do something unique to honor her grandfather on the anniversary of his passing.

Angelle Carbone said the blood drive is going to be a community event, and everyone is welcome. She said even though there have been several people to sign up, walk-ins are still encouraged.

Donors will receive a free T-shirt and be entered for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to Dockside. Angelle Carbone said participants do not have to be present to win the gift certificate.

According to the event’s Facebook page, all donors must be at least 17-years-old and need to weigh at least 110 pounds. 16-year-olds can donate as well, but will need to have a consent form signed by a legal guardian and must weigh at least 130 pounds. It is recommended that donors eat a good meal and drink plenty of fluids before participating.

According to the American Red Cross’ website, there is currently a nationwide blood shortage.

“Blood donations have fallen short of expectations for the past two months, resulting in about 61,000 fewer donations than needed,” the website states.

The local Blood Center provides blood and plasma to hospitals throughout South Louisiana and a portion of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the center’s website states. To meet demands, the center must collect 350 pints of blood per day from the 10 donation centers.

The Blood Center is open Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from noon to 7 p.m.

“We hope this can continue to be an annual event in his [Thomas Carbone, Jr.] honor,” Angelle Carbone said.