Every two seconds, someone in the United States requires blood, according to the American Red Cross. The Cherry Hill East Fall Blood Drive provides the perfect opportunity to help other people. This year, the Fall Blood Drive will be held from November 13 to 14in the East Gym.

“The goal is roughly three hundred donors,” said Josh Warren (’13), the overall chairperson for the blood drive along with Dani Byck (’13).

The goal may seem  lofty, but about 290 students donated last year.

Interested students must be sixteen or older. Those who are sixteen require a parent’s consent. Students must meet physical requirements, as well. A student who is 5’6’’ needs to weigh 110 pounds, and for every inch shorter must be five pounds heavier. (For example, a 5’3’’ students needs to weigh 125 pounds.)

“During the blood drive, you sign in, then you go into a waiting room where you read the materials. You take a test on the computer. They test you for your iron. If it’s good, you donate,” said Warren.

Students who donate will receive a t-shirt. Each year, the blood drive has a theme, but it is not revealed early because students may choose not to donate based on the theme. The blood drive leaders do not want to do anything that could impair their chances for a large number of donors.

Students who cannot or do not want to donate can still get involved with the blood drive by attending publicity meetings. Students should listen for these on the lunchtime announcements.

For students who want to donate, appointments are preferred, but walk-ins will also be welcomed. To make an appointment or to get more information, contact Mr. CJ Davis, the advisor of the blood drive, at cdavis@chclc.org.