The students at Callaway Public Schools may not all be old enough to donate blood, but they are discovering that blood donors are life saving heroes. As part of the American Red Cross Future Blood Donor program, students are learning about the importance of blood donation and are encouraging community members to give blood on Friday, Feb. 24 from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the school.

“Participation in a blood drive is a wonderful way for students to become aware of community responsibility and develop a desire to help others,” said Amanda Wehnes, account manager with the American Red Cross. “I encourage the community to support the students’ efforts by rolling up a sleeve to give blood at their upcoming blood drive.”

The Future Blood Donor program teaches elementary and middle school students about the function of blood in the body and the importance of blood donation. Students are then asked to help recruit their parents, family members and other adults to donate at the school’s upcoming blood drive. Every student who recruits someone to come and donate at the school’s blood drive will receive special recognition from the Red Cross and the knowledge that they helped save lives.

To make an appointment to donate at the Callaway Public School’s Future Blood Donor blood drive, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCross-Blood.org or call the school at 836-2272.

How to donate blood Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1- 800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. 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.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.