Southern Maine community college is hosting a blood drive through the American Red Cross organization on April 26th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Campus Center in the Noisy Lounge. This blood drive is an opportunity for students to donate to people in need of blood transfusions. In the U.S. every 2 seconds someone is in need of blood. It’s important to know that you must be 16 years or older to donate, be in good health, and you must weigh at least 110 lbs. O-positive blood is technically the most valuable, due to the fact that it can be universally mixed with any other blood type. So if you have this blood type, it would be extra crucial that you consider donating. 

Blood drives are so important to patients who need help surviving surgeries, chronic illnesses, cancer treatment, and traumatic injuries. Blood drives are also not very time-consuming and it takes about 15 minutes. 

The American Red Cross has been in business for over 140 years. The American Red Cross and its partners have not only helped more than two million people but also aided in providing homes, sanitary water, prevention of disease, and providing medical care.

The American Red Cross has a special place in my heart due to the fact that my mom used to help run blood drives through her work with Loring Job Corps. She would always take my sister and I to help hand out snacks and drinks or check people in that were donating. 

Consider the effect that donating blood would have, and how little you have to do in order to make a difference!