By: Kiana Madrigal
On October 15, The HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) program hosted a blood drive during blocks one through three in the gym foyer. Last blood drive, they had 42 units of blood donated, which was the highest amount they have gotten in a single blood drive. The blood drive is run by the American Red Cross, a non-profit health organization, and goes to patients who need transfusions, trauma or severe injuries, cancer patients, and patients undergoing surgery or childbirth. Every two seconds someone needs blood!
This year, the signups were fully booked with 48 participants, a huge chunk of which were first-time donors. With this, they collected 42 pints total. To donate, you need to be at least 16 years old with parental permission; 17 and older can sign up themselves. Sign-ups are found during all lunches where all the necessary and extra information will be provided, including the specific height, weight, and health standards you must meet.
Do not worry if you missed donating blood; there are two more upcoming blood drives! The second blood drive is on February 26, 2026, and the third is on April 23,2026. Donating blood can serve as a valuable leadership and community engagement opportunity for students. Additionally, the number of units that are donated contribute to a scholarship the American Red Cross gives to one or two HOSA students.
