The ESUMS Principal's Advisory Committee is hosting our second blood drive on Thursday, February 12th from 8:00am-1:30pm, and everyone is encouraged to participate. With the American Red Cross facing a severe national blood shortage, the need for donors has never been more urgent.
Why your Donation Matters Now
The American Red Cross has reported that requests from hospitals now exceed the available blood supply, with the national inventory drawn down about 35% over the past month. This shortage has been driven by extreme winter weather canceling hundreds of blood drives and high seasonal illness rates that have reduced donor turnout. Without immediate action, vital medical procedures - including trauma care, surgeries, childbirth support, and cancer treatment - could be delayed due to lack of available blood.
Blood donations can't be manufactured and every unit collected can help save up to three lives. Each donation supports patients of all ages and backgrounds - from accident victims to individuals undergoing serious medical care.
What Happens to your Blood After Donation
When you donate, about 1 pint of blood is collected and carefully processed and screen by the Red Cross. It's separated into components like red cells, platelets, and plasma - all of which are used for different patient needs. After thorough testing, the blood is stored and made available to hospitals 24/7 to help those who require urgent transfusions.
To read more about how blood donations help patients, visit the American Red Cross's website here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/how-blood-donations-help.html
Incentive to Donate: Gift Cards for Donors
To recognize donors during this critical period, everyone who donates at the ESUMS Blood Drive will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice - an initiative supported by the American Red Cross through February 28, 2026.
Who Can Donate
Donors must be at least 17 years old to give blood.
16-year-olds may donate only if they have parental consent - and a consent form is provided for families.
This event is open to the public, and friends and family are encouraged to attend and donate.
How to Sign Up
If you would like to donate, please use the sign-up link to reserve your appointment and help support both ESUMS students and the broader community:
👉https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=ESUMS
With the ongoing shortage affecting local and national blood supplies, your participation is a meaningful way to support patients in need - and to show up for both our school and our community.