MCALLEN – An urgent call for blood donations across the Rio Grande Valley.

Everyday 135 pints of blood are needed, but at the moment only 30 to 40 pints are available.

A representative from the Vitalant blood bank says a blood shortage is forcing them to order blood from El Paso and other parts of West Texas.

They say the blood arrives in one day, but urgent care patients may not be able to wait that long.

All blood types are needed.

If you would like to donate blood, Vitalant will be hosting blood drives throughout the summer.

Visit their Facebook page for more information.