Nine days Pope John Paul II voiced his support, the American Red Cross, the Hospital Association of Southern California (HASC) and the Blood Bank of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties issued a statement urging Southern Californians to donate blood now.

"To give one's blood voluntarily and for free is a gesture of high moral and civic value," the pope said in a June 13 statement, to commemorate World Blood Donor Day, organized by several agencies including the World Health Organization, the International Federation of Red Cross. "May donors, who deserve everyone's gratitude, be present in all parts of the world."

This week, the Red Cross reported it had less than a one-day supply of the O negative blood. In Southern California; a five- to seven-day supply of all blood types is desired to maintain a stable blood supply.

There is a special need for Group O blood, officials said, since nearly one-half the population has this blood type, and Group O negative blood is also the "universal" donor blood often used in emergencies. About one-half of those who do not know their blood type will be a Group O donor.

To donate blood, people should call 1.800.GIVE.LIFE.