Under the bright hum of lamps, students and staff stretched out on folding cots, phone in hand and sleeves rolled up, turning an ordinary classroom into a lifesaving operation. The American Red Cross club organized a blood drive in room 106 on Wednesday, Jan. 14. The blood drive was open to all who were interested, but required a minimum weight of 110 pounds and a minimum age of at least 17 years old. However, 16-year-olds were allowed to participate with a consent form signed by a parent.

According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds someone requires blood to save their life. Due to this necessity, the American Red Cross hosts more than 500 blood drives across the country every single day.

One of the program and club leaders, Kate Ferguson, said she and others decided to organize this year’s drive in hopes of giving members of the high school community a chance to participate in something that supports life-saving institutions.

“I know that there’s always a need for blood for medical emergencies,” Ferguson said. “It also seemed like a good opportunity to get students involved in an important cause.”

Nicholas Rothstein, an English teacher and donor, said that he frequently donates blood. Once Rothstein heard about the blood drive, he said that he was ready to donate.

“A month ago, someone came by and asked me if I wanted to donate blood because they were promoting it and going around getting people,” Rothstein said. “So honestly, it hadn’t crossed my mind until they brought it up to me, and I said ‘yeah.’”

Markiah Mendoza volunteered in the blood drive and works as a phlebotomist. Mendoza mentioned that the blood collected today will be used in both hospitals and ambulances for emergencies. Mendoza also said that she would encourage everyone to donate.

“If you want to do something meaningful and impactful, this is an easy way to give back,” Mendoza said. “One bag of blood saves three lives, so you would be a superhero.”