SALINEVILLE – The Southern Local High School National Honor Society is planning its final blood drive of the year on March 24 and organizers are seeking donors to make a difference.

Adviser Bob Shansky said the student organization is partnering with the American Red Cross and activities will get underway from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the high school gym. The school is located at 38095 state Route 39 in Salineville and registered donors as well as community walk-ins are welcome. NHS members will give their time operating stations from registration to the canteen while Red Cross medical personnel will conduct the blood collection.

“This is our last one of the year,” Shansky said, adding the campaign would assist in filling a decreased supply. “The theme is ‘Help Fill the Need: Donate Blood.'”

Red Cross officials have said there was a shortage and volunteers could help save lives. All of the viable blood collected would ultimately be used for cancer treatment, surgeries, and related emergencies. The biannual blood drive not only aids gives back to the community, it also supports graduating NHS members by providing scholarship money based upon the number of units collected. Additionally, donors who give in March will receive a $15 gift card by email and successful donations get A1C testing.

Participants may go on line or scan the QR code to make an appointment and be directed to RapidPass, the latter of which will help save time during donations. For more information, call 1 (800) RED-CROSS (800-733-2767), go to RedCrossBlood.org, or download the blood donor app.