Find a Blood Drive
Find a Blood Drive
Faribault community is invited to help save lives and meet the constant need for blood
FARIBAULT, Minn. — Students and faculty at the Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf invite the community to help save lives at an American Red Cross blood drive March 6 from 1 to 7 p.m. in the Quinn Hall auditorium, 615 Olof Hanson Drive.
“We are excited to welcome the public to the academy’s blood drive so they can see firsthand the contributions that our students are making as a vital part of this community,” said Jody Olson, interim director, MSAD Middle and High School. “It is a great opportunity for both MSAD students and the Faribault community to come together towards a common goal of supporting the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross.”
Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf is a public residential and bilingual school where students are taught through American Sign Language and use English in writing and reading. It is one of two Minnesota State Academies in Faribault operated by the state for particular student populations.
“Our mission is to educate, create opportunities and motivate students for an independent future,” said Olson. “This is a wonderful way for our students to learn the importance of community service and giving back. We’re hoping they will become dedicated blood donors in the future.”
As much as 20 percent of Red Cross blood donations come from students during the academic school year. By hosting two blood drives during the year, MSAD is eligible to participate in the Red Cross High School Scholarship Program. This program gives MSAD students the opportunity to help others, while also helping establish a scholarship fund to benefit students as they move on to higher education.
“Junior National Association for the Deaf members are learning so much about awareness, commitment, cooperation and involvement,” said Lisa Wasilowski, Junior NAD sponsor. “The Red Cross fits the bill and more!”
The Red Cross depends on blood donor heroes across the nation to collect enough blood to meet the needs of patients at approximately 2,600 hospitals nationwide. Right now, there is a need for type O blood donors. Type O negative is the universal blood type and can be transfused to patients of any blood type. Type O positive is the most common blood type and can be transfused to Rh-positive patients of any blood type.
To make an appointment to give blood, please use sponsor code MSAD on the Red Cross Blood Donor App, online at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donors are encouraged to make appointments and complete the RapidPass online health history questionnaire at redcrossblood.org/rapidpass to save time when donating.
How to donate blood
All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
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