In the United States, someone needs blood every two seconds, according to the American Red Cross. They are able to get the life-saving blood transfusion because of donations from ordinary people, such as Central’s students. For decades, Central has hosted an annual blood drive and donated countless pints of blood. 

You can donate blood when the Red Cross comes to Central Nov. 29 from 8 am to 1 pm, and sign ups will take place during PowerHour this week and the days prior to the drive. 

To help incentivize participation, the Red Cross is giving out monetary rewards.The school will receive scholarship money to award to students. The more pints of blood donated, the more money students can receive from the Red Cross. 

The school is also giving out prizes to those who participate. Some lucky donors will be given a Fire TV Stick, a mini fridge, or a pair of socks from the movie Elf. 

Anyone who is 16 years or older can sign up and donate blood, but 16-year-olds need to have their parent’s consent. Be sure to fill out the consent form and turn it in.

In addition to filling out the necessary paperwork, you’ll need to get a good night’s sleep, eat an iron-rich meal, drink lots of water, and avoid caffeine before the day of donation. More information can be found at What to do Before, During and After a Donation

If you follow the instructions, you will likely have a smooth and relaxing time. Afterwards, the volunteers will give you snacks and watch over you. Youth Services Center staff Brenden Chaney and Mandy Sanders will also be there for support. 

Still feeling nervous about donating blood? Take Chaney’s advice: “If you’re on the fence, talk to someone who has donated blood in the past. The red cross staff are very nice and will take care of you if you’re feeling a little queasy.” 

If the anxiety of a first time blood donation is too overwhelming, you can always opt out. 

“If you do get there the day of and you’ve signed up and you’re like ‘I don’t think I can do this’, it’s okay to not do it,” Cheney said. 

Donating blood is incredibly important. Because of the pandemic, the Red Cross has seen less and less participation in Blood Drives, which means that the people may not get the thing that saves their life. Fixing this disparity starts with you.