As a way of helping meet the American Red Cross's need for blood donations, Saint Mary's College hosted a blood drive Monday.
"Believe it or not, there is always a need for blood," Olivia Critchlow, assistant director of the Office for Civic and Social Engagement, said. "We feel that it's part of one's civic duty to donate if possible."
The drive was held in the College's Student Center Lounge from noon to 6 p.m., and was one of four blood drives the College offers each academic year.
At Monday's drive, more than 90 people had signed up to donate blood, Critchlow said. She also said students were able to continue to sign up throughout the drive, and walk-ins were also accepted.
"It is important to donate blood because there is always a need for it in the community," Critchlow said. "Blood cannot be manufactured, so the only way to fulfill the need for it is through volunteer donations."
Critchlow said the actual blood donation takes less than 10 to 12 minutes on average. Additionally, the entire blood donation process takes less than one hour.
Sophomore Katie Cireski donated blood Monday to help fill a need.
"There's a need for blood and there are so many people that are eligible that don't donate, so I figured since I am eligible to donate, I might as well," sophomore Katie Ciresi said. "I think it's something important to do and I think everyone should do it at least once in their life, if not more."
Junior Grace Sadowski also said she believes it is important to donate blood — so important that she has been a donor about 15 times.
"I've always given it," she said. "My little sister was premature and people that gave blood saved her life so I always do."
Sadowski said she thinks there is a higher need than ever before for blood donations and encouraged others to donate.
"I personally can't save people's lives, so I feel like this is helping as much as I can," she said. "I think more people should do it and it's not as scary as everyone thinks. Families that do have blood donated to them are really appreciative."
According to a press release form the American Red Cross, the blood drive held Monday was parte of the "Stave a Vampire. Donate Blood" campaign.
As part of the campaign, two $50 shopping sprees were given away in a drawing. Those who donated blood were entered.
In addition to the blood drive held Monday, other drives for the campaign will be held in the area. On April 26 and April 27, blood drives will be held in 315 LaFortune Student Center at Notre Dame.
Three $50 shopping sprees will be given away each day during the blood drives held at the University.
