This marks the fifth year that SMS has worked with the American Red Cross to help ensure a blood supply for area hospitals. The event also helps educate students, even those who are not old enough to participate, said Basic Needs sponsor ViAnn Farmer.

“We want younger girls to understand that blood donors save lives,” she said, “so when they are older, they will see blood donation as a good way to help their community.”

Students of all ages are helping raise money to cover the bloodmobile’s costs. Girls and adults will make a donation for the privilege of wearing flip flops and tank tops to school on the Thursday before the blood drive. Basic Needs also will hold a bake sale in conjunction with the May 14 event.

“Our goal is 35 or more units,” said Basic Needs Co-Chair Catherine Chilton of Lancaster. “We really hope lots of people will come out so we can meet or beat that number.”

According to the Red Cross, most people aged 17 and over qualify to give blood if they weigh at least 110 pounds and have not donated within the last 56 days. Health care professionals collect donations using sterile equipment to ensure the safety of both the donor and the blood supply.

The Red Cross advises donors to drink plenty of water starting the day before they donate, and to eat before they come to donate. Donors will need to bring a photo ID or blood donor card. For more facts about donor eligibility and the blood donation process, visit www.redcross.org/midatlanticblood For questions about the SMS blood drive, contact ViAnn Farmer at 443-3357 extn: 3053.