On April 17, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Lake Land College (LLC) will host a crucial blood drive in partnership with the American Red Cross. This initiative, sponsored by the Student Government Association (SGA), aims to unite students, faculty and community members to help address the ongoing need for blood donations. 

Tara Field, Account Manager for Donor Recruitment at the Red Cross, provided insight into the importance of blood donation, the process and how students can get involved. 

According to Field, only 3% of eligible donors donate blood, despite hospitals depending on daily supplies to save lives. Blood shortages can delay medical procedures, surgeries and treatments for Sickle Cell disease and cancer patients. Emergencies, including car accidents, can require up to 100 units of blood for a single victim. 

One of the most critical blood types in demand is O-negative (O-), the universal donor type that can be used for emergency transfusions. However, Field emphasized that all blood types are needed to maintain a stable supply. 

When blood supplies run low, the Red Cross takes several steps to encourage more donations. Field explained that raising awareness plays a huge role in ensuring a steady blood supply. “Only 3% of eligible donors give blood,” she said. “We try to educate the public through phone calls, news reports and social media campaigns to highlight the urgent need for blood donations.” 

She also pointed out that blood cannot be manufactured—it relies entirely on donors. 

For those wondering if they are eligible, Field recommended visiting www.redcrossblood.org to check donation requirements. If eligible, donors should: 

• Eat iron-rich foods in the days leading up to the donation.
• Stay hydrated for a smoother experience.
• Eat at least an hour before donating to prevent dizziness.
• Bring a photo ID to the blood drive.

Donors will also go through a quick health check on the donation day before the procedure. 

The Red Cross partners with SGA four times yearly to host campus blood drives. In addition to the upcoming April event, a summer blood drive is scheduled for June 18, 2025. Those interested in donating can give blood every 56 days. 

For students who may not be able to donate, there are still ways to help. “If you can’t donate, you can always encourage someone else to donate on your behalf,” Field suggested. The Red Cross also offers volunteering opportunities for those who want to contribute in other ways. 

Students and community members can visit www.redcrossblood.org to stay updated on future blood drives and Red Cross initiatives. Field also mentioned that donors can speed up the process by completing a Rapid Pass on the day of their donation. 

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. By participating in Lake Land College’s upcoming blood drive, students and staff can make a real difference in saving lives.