Written by Bri’Aja Lloyd

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ince 1881, The American Red Cross has been the nation’s premier emergency service organization, helping people in need from all over. Every year, since Lincoln High School opened in 2007, we’ve held blood drives to help their cause. With recent disasters happening, more and more frequently people are donating blood.

 Senior, Gloriee said, “Everyone should help out, because when you’re done you feel really great.”

As you looked around the gym, you could see positive thoughts practically racing through students heads. It was also apparent that the students saw donating blood as a rewarding experience. “I donated blood because people in our neighborhood don’t step up enough and help others in need,” said 17-year-old senior, Rose Castillo, . Since this was her second time giving blood, she didn’t seem as nervous as many other students, but rather more excited to be helping people in need.

Jennifer Rocca, an instructor from The American Red Cross, explained the importance of donating, “I believe in our mission; to help anyone in need, despite their race, social background, or how much they make.” She continued to show her gratitude for the schools efforts, and stated, “We couldn’t do it without you guys.”

Although Lincoln is only having two drives this year, as compared to three last year, high schools and college students tend to donate a great deal of the blood received. In fact, 25% of the blood collected by the American Red Cross comes from high schools and colleges.

 "With all the efforts from our students, staff, and community members, we collected 69 pints of blood, the most ever collected here at Lincoln," stated Pedro Mota, Commissioner of Race/Human and Public Relations, who is in charge of putting on the blood drives.  "Please come to the A.S.B. room during lunch or the central office to pick up your blood drive permission slip to participate in the next blood drive being held March 24th.  You must be at least 16 years of age to donate.  There is a different permission slip for 16 year olds.  Once you have the permission slip completed, please turn it into the A.S.B. room at lunch to get your appointment time," Mota stated.  "For every pint of blood that is donated, you are saving three lives."

 The students and staff members of Lincoln and even community members have truly helped make a difference. With our next blood drive coming up soon, Match 24^th, our hopes are to collect more than last time.  Remember, “EVERY PINT COUNTS!”