Colton, CA—Students, staff and community members rolled up their sleeves on Sep. 12 to support LifeStream, the nonprofit blood bank, at the annual blood drive in the Mac Gym. This year’s drive set a new record for the HEAL pathway, with donations from 111 people, including students and staff.
The event was coordinated by HEAL pathway advisor Kristin Griffith, who also donated. “I am lucky enough to be healthy,” she said. “Lots of people are not so lucky.”
Griffith emphasized how a single donation of a pint can save up to three lives. She shared stories of friends whose recoveries depended on transfusions. For her, the drive was about more than collecting blood—it was about teaching students compassion and service. “There are so many people in need who will die without these donations. If you can donate, you should consider it!”
The record turnout showed the community’s dedication to helping meet the nationwide demand for blood, which remains critical as only about 3% of eligible Americans donate each year according to the American Red Cross.
To be eligible for donation, participants must be 15 or older and weigh at least 110 pounds. Parental consent is required for students under 17. LifeStream encourages participants to eat well, stay hydrated and rest afterward to ensure a smooth blood giving experience.
For several Colton students, the experience was a nervous one. However, Daphne Marquez, the Pepper Bough’s editor-in-chief, wasn’t as she gave blood for the first time at this event. “I was excited that I actually met the requirements to give blood,” she said. “It felt good to do something for the community.”
Several donors received $10 In-N-Out gift cards for their time and blood.
HEAL plans for another blood drive this coming Spring.