Ludlow High School’s student council is holding an American Red Cross blood drive on March 7, from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the back gym.

Donations will go patients who need transfusions, surgeries, or are in trauma. One donation can help three different people.

“My goal for the blood drive is always 100 students,” says Brian Bylicki. “We’re not quite there yet though.”

Students can donate if they are 16 years of age and have parental consent. At 17 students do not need consent. Students who’ve gotten a tattoo in the past year or have recently traveled to certain countries cannot donate. There is also a weight requirement.

“It makes me feel good knowing that I’m helping save lives,” says senior Alex Gaughan. “The first time I did it, I got a little dizzy. But I was given crackers and juice and I was fine after that.”

On top of the satisfaction of saving lives the American Red Cross compensates donors.

“Donors receive a free griddle melt from IHop, and we’re giving out t-shirts this year,” says Bylicki.