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More than 40 McLean students volunteered for an annual blood drive as the nation faced a severe shortage that had cut blood supplies by 35% in a single month.

The Red Cross Club held the five-hour drive Thursday, March 1, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the school’s dance room. Students signed up in advance, while club members helped prepare the space and supported donors as they recovered.

Donors entered the room, scanned a QR code to access the blood donor portal and answered screening questions before waiting for Red Cross staff to call their names. Staff then checked hemoglobin levels and other health factors that could prevent a donation.

Junior Katrina Kanthraj described check-in as simple and said Red Cross workers were “super kind and friendly.”

All participating students were asked to show identification, such as a driver’s license. Those younger than 17 also needed a parental permission form.

Several students were unable to donate during the opening hours because of low iron levels, veins that made needle insertion difficult or failure to meet the 110-pound minimum weight requirement.

Physics teacher Sean Jones, the club’s sponsor, said collecting as much blood as possible was especially important because hospitals and other facilities rely on donations to meet patient needs.

The American Red Cross reported a severe nationwide blood shortage in January 2026 after supplies fell 35% during the previous month. A flu outbreak, harsh winter weather and a decline in donors contributed to the drop.

Club members coordinated the room setup and took turns assisting volunteers throughout the drive. Jones said he was impressed by how independently the students handled the event.

Co-president Sidona Asmelash said the donations would contribute to a broader effort, with collected blood going to patients across the country. The club hopes its drive helped ease the shortage.