Local students take part in blood drive

11/29/2012 (Updated 6:41:16 PM)

VESTAL -- Students at Vestal High School took time out of their school day to help those in need.
 
The American Red Cross was at the high school gym and students were welcome to donate a pint of blood.  Organizers say that Vestal typically has the largest turn out compared to other schools, this year over 175 students donated while several others had to be turned away for time reasons.  Organizers say that it's important for everyone to donate even those afraid it might hurt.

"Why is it important?  Because you save lives, everytime you donate blood you save three lives," said Stefanie Johns, Account Representative of the American Red Cross.  "Everyone is afraid of needles.  It's really not that bad, it's a quick prick and you shouldn't feel a thing."

The Red Cross does two blood drives a year at several area high schools, one in each semester.