We Are Blood is experiencing a critical blood shortage and is in need of donations, especially types O negative and O positive blood, according to organization officials.

A recent press released stated donations during the holiday season were lower than anticipated, placing the Central Texas blood supply at a “dangerously low" level.

Over 40 hospitals and medical facilities in a 10-county area depend on the supply of blood provided by We Are Blood.

Types O negative and O positive blood are the most important due to their universal tendencies, the press release said. Still, all eligible donors are encouraged to participate.

Eligible donors must be in good health, at least 17 years old and weigh at least 115 pounds.

Patrons 21 years of age and older who donate or attempt to donate blood between Jan. 8-31 can enter to win a ticket to an exclusive donors-only party on Feb. 24 at 4th Tap Brewing Cooperative, 10615 Metric Blvd., Austin. Fifty winners will be randomly selected to attend the party, which will feature a barbecue dinner from LeRoy and Lewis along with live music from local group The Watters.

Physical locations:

Austin North
4300 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin

Round Rock
2132 North Mays, Ste. 900, Round Rock

Austin South
3100 W. Slaughter Lane, Austin

For more information, to book an appointment at any of the three donation locations, or to view the mobile drive schedule, visit www.weareblood.org.