AVID is hosting a blood drive in the upper cafeteria Tuesday, March 1 from 8 a.m. to 9:40 a.m., and 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Senior and AVID student Vannessa Ruby believes the blood drive is for a good cause because it helps people who need the blood. “We have a blood drive to give the opportunity to help people who need it,” Ruby said.

Tables are set out during lunch in Activities where students can sign up to donate their blood. Students can also find forms at bonfils.org. “We only have enough time for a certain amount [of students] since it goes from 8 to 1:30,” Ruby said.

Ruby said to make sure that if students go in to donate blood they should make sure to stay calm and not watch their blood get drawn. “Stay positive and make sure you are following the requirements,” Ruby said.

In order for students to be able to donate blood they must meet certain requirement, for instance students must be 16 to 18 years of age with parents permission, weigh at least 115 pounds, and have had a tattoo or piercing for at least 12 months. “[Students] must also know the last four digits of their social security number,” Ruby said.

There are many other things that students should and should not do before and after they get their blood taken. Stated on the Blood Donation Minor Consent Form all donors should avoid heavy muscular or strenuous activity such as lifting, running, pushing or picking up heavy objects for four to five hours after donating. “They should eat healthy and drink lots of water,” Ruby said.