Gravette High School students recently hosted a successful blood drive, partnering with the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO) to raise awareness about the urgent need for blood donations. Despite winter weather delaying the event, the rescheduled drive exceeded expectations.
The drive took place in the school's Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) lab. Organizers set a target of 25 donations, and the community surpassed that goal with 27 successful donations. Although 32 people had pre-scheduled appointments, 42 individuals arrived ready to give blood. Donors were treated to complimentary hoodies, snacks, and beverages as a thank-you for their vital contributions.
The event's success would not have been possible without the efforts of HOSA student volunteers. Robin Hilger, Kinsley Burrow, Laney Chilton, Kennedy Flynt, and Bailey Flynt worked to ensure a smooth operation of the first blood drive since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The need for blood donations has reached a critical point worldwide. Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion, yet donations have not fully recovered since COVID-19 began.
If you missed this blood drive but are interested in donating, it's not too late. The Community Blood Center of the Ozarks makes it easy to learn more and schedule your donation. Visit www.cbco.org/can-i-give for information about eligibility and upcoming donation opportunities.
Gravette High School thanks all donors, volunteers, and community members who made this blood drive a success. Your generosity strengthens our community and saves lives across the region. Check out Gravette High School's HOSA Instagram profile to follow the progress of the future health professionals of our community: https://www.instagram.com/ghs_hosa24/.
Special thanks to Robin Hilger for sharing this story and photos.