To give back and save lives, Student Council and Carter Bloodcare put on one of their two blood drives of the year in the Auxiliary Gym on Sept. 20.

“I think that it is a really good opportunity for kids to give back,” Student Council sponsor Daina Hunt said. “It’s a really simple way for y’all to give back. You just have to be well hydrated and well rested and get a good meal and you can come out and make a difference.”

Hunt says that this blood drive is one of the more important events because a single donation can save three lives.

“Our goal today was 70 people donating and three times 70 is 210,” Ms. Hunt said. “That is very important for a small high school like us to be able to help with.”

Seventy-one people donated, reaching their goal.

“I encourage students to give blood if they are old enough and able to,” Mr. Hill said. “[It] could save someone’s life, help a family, help someone in need, and make you feel good at the same time.”

Brandon Woolums, a senior, made his first donation at the event.

“They said over the loudspeaker about how it could help a lot of people, even if it’s just a little bit of blood,” he said.

This drive is especially important for the blood banks after hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

“You’re short when you come off of summer to begin with,” Hunt said, “but we were even more devastated coming off of the hurricanes.”

Mr. Hill anticipated many donations this year for all of the people in Houston affected by the hurricane.

“I think that whenever things like this happen people are more motivated to help, their hearts go out,” Hill said.

There are two blood drives per year. The next drive is set to be held during the second semester.

“There is a second blood drive after Christmas break,” Student Council member Bailey Carl said. “ It would benefit a lot of people if you could come and donate.”