Ark Valley News - VCIS to host Red Cross ‘Pint Size’ blood drive

VCIS to host Red Cross ‘Pint Size’ blood drive
By The News staff
Last Updated: April 30, 2015

The students at Valley Center Intermediate may not be old enough to donate blood, but they are discovering that blood donors are lifesaving heroes. As part of the American Red Cross Pint Size Program, students are learning about the importance of blood donation and are recruiting blood donors.

"Participation in a blood drive is a wonderful way for the students to become aware of community responsibility and develop an attitude of helping others," said Tricia Quinn, CEO of Central Plains Region

Valley Center Intermediate School will host a Pint Size Hero Blood Drive from 1 to 5 p.m. May 8 at the school, 737 N. Meridian. Follow signs and enter through the doors on the north of the school that are south of the tennis courts.

To make an appointment to donate, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), visit www.redcrossblood.org, sponsor keyword Valley Center Intermediate or text BLOODAPP to 90999.

The Pint Size Hero Program begins with teaching students about the function of blood, blood components and the importance of blood donation. Afterward, students are asked to recruit their parents, family members and other adults to donate at the school's upcoming blood drive. Each student who recruits someone to donate at the school's blood drive will receive special recognition from the Red Cross. The real prize is knowing they helped save lives.

Students will be recruiting donors who are at least 17 years of age (16 in some states), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and are in generally good health. Prior to donating blood, donors will register, complete a brief health-history screening and have their blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature and iron level checked. The entire donation process takes about an hour, but the actual blood donation takes about 10 minutes. Refreshments are provided at the end of the donation process.