The annual Red Cross blood drive is set to take place on Feb. 27 at FHN. It will be held in the large gym from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is being sponsored by the Volunteer Knights program.

“We have different stations that that consist of a sign-in, a screening, the blood donation and the canteen [refreshment time for the donors],” sponsor Jenelle Louis-Bauer said. “The donation is pretty much just a quick stick.”

There are some requirements that must be followed to become a donor. For example, the donor must be 16 years old or older and have normal iron levels. Some medicines may also make a person unable to donate. Despite such requirements, the Volunteer Knights encourage everyone to help the cause.

“I wanted to donate because I wanted to help people,” sophomore donor Audrey Baker said. “It can definitely inspire others, it really is a good feeling.”

According to Louis-Bauer, donating blood can make a big difference to those in need. As little as one pint of blood can save up to three lives. This is why the organization attempts to get as many donors as possible.

“It’s extremely important,” Louis-Bauer said. “It’s a nice feeling to be able to give.”

While the blood drive is not aimed at helping a specific disease, the Volunteer Knights hope to collect as many pints of blood as possible. The program is attempting to find blood donors by posting fliers around the school and holding sign-ups during lunches.

“I did it because I just came to realize that it’s a good thing to do,” sophomore donor Kyle Dearing said. “Say that one day your child needed blood, this is what could save your kid’s life. You can actually save someone’s life without even meeting them.”