NORFOLK, Neb.--A blood drive was held at Northeast Community College on Wednesday to help with the national blood shortage affecting the country.

The theme of the drive was ‘Spring Into Life’ and even had a student dress up as a giant peep to help people get into the spirit of spring and Easter. Individuals who donated blood even had a chance to win a gift basket by putting their name in the draw.

 

According to the Student Activities Coordinator, Erika Rupprecht, over 60 donors signed up throughout the day to give blood with American Red Cross on hand.

Rupprecht mentioned how it’s a privilege to be able to help combat the national blood shortage around the nation.

“There’s kind of a blood shortage right now. So, we hope this can help that,” Rupprecht said. “People showing up and people showing up healthy is huge when working towards that blood shortage we’re trying to fix,” added Rupprecht.

When blood drives are held every couple of months at Northeast Community College, Rupprecht said students always show up to help donate.

“Almost always are our blood drives full. A lot of times, we actually have to turn people away and send them to other blood drives or just recommend they come back in a couple of months when we do another blood drive,” said Rupprecht. “The Northeast students and faculty and staff here, they’re great about donating and filling those spots, “ added Rupprecht.

The drive happened from 9 am to 3 pm in the Lifelong Learning Center.