The Owatonna High School’s National Honor Society is partnering with the Red Cross once again to host their second blood drive this school year, on Friday, Jan. 30. In total, NHS has partnered with the Red Cross to host over 45 blood drives and it has become a staple for OHS students to give back.
In order to allow the blood drive to run smoothly, many NHS members are setting up before school, greeting donors, helping them feel calm and safe, handing out snacks and water and escorting community members to and from the Auxiliary Gym during the blood drive.
This event is open to OHS students, staff and the general public. Students at OHS are only able to donate blood if they meet important guidelines. In order to be a blood donor, one must be at least 110 pounds. All 16 year olds will need parental consent while 17 and 18 year olds do not.
While donating makes an impact in the lives of those that receive the donation, it also impacts those who are choosing to donate. First time donor, junior Lakyrie Jones said, “I believe in donating because it can save a lot of people’s lives, especially during surgery and the American Red Cross is in a severe blood shortage right now.”
Now more than ever donations are crucial, as there is a shortage taking place. The NHS Adviser Ms. Sydney Kasper mentioned that a third NHS blood drive will be added this spring. She explained, “In the past it has been two a year, but they [Red Cross] asked if we could add an extra one this year because they’re in need of donors and blood, especially now.”
Donating can be seen as an important cause within the OHS community, as their goal is to have 66 people signed up to donate. Kasper said, “I love seeing the community members that come in and also seeing the first time donors.”
By choosing to donate, each donor will receive a $20 e-gift card to their merchant of choice. This event will take place in the OHS Auxiliary Gym on Friday, Jan 30. starting at 8:30 a.m. and will conclude at 1:30 p.m. Be on the lookout for the third blood drive happening during the spring.
