The Red Cross Bloodmobile was at Falcon Square on Monday and Tuesday and will continue accepting donors until Friday from 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Senior Field Manager of the American Red Cross Rob Torrez said this is the number one blood drive of the school year.

“On Monday, we had over 120 come in, today so far we’re close to 60.

“By Thursday, we should have up to 500, which is phenomenal.”

To be eligible to donate blood donors have to be 17 years of age and have a valid form of photo ID.

Donors get tested prior to donating to make sure they are in good health.

One donor can only donate one pint, Torrez said.

That pint is enough to save three lives.

“It’s all about saving lives, our hospitals are in desperate need of blood,” he added.

Nursing Major Ana Herrera gave her reason for donating.

“My friend said it’s something good to do for the community.

“The best part is my blood saving their lives, that’s awesome.”

Torrez also noted that there isn’t an abundance of blood, and he would like to put those rumors to rest.

“Today, our blood is turning over to people within 5-10 days.”

It leaves Cerritos College, it goes gets tested, and it is then sent into a local hospital and gets used by a patient within that time.

The hospitals always ask the American Red Cross to keep a 7-10 day inventory of blood, when in reality they only have a 2 hour inventory, he said.

According to Torrez, the American Red Cross cannot keep up with the demands of hospitals, and says it is unfortunate.

“If a big earthquake hits, or if a big catastrophe hits, we’re in trouble,” he said.

That is why he encourages students to donate.

Torrez says he is proud of the faculty here, and especially to those who give extra credit to their students for donating blood, as it is a big help to them.

Art Major Ana Rivas has donated blood before, and says people should look past their fears of the needle.

“You know its going to a good cause, and its a great feeling helping out,” she said.

Donors will also receive free tickets to a Los Angeles Galaxy game, and a certificate for a free appetizer from Mimi’s Cafe as well as a chance to win a $500 spa gift card.

Child Development Major Gabriela Ochoa said how she felt right before she donated.

“I’m kind of nervous, but I hope everything goes well.”

Business Management major D. Parafox says her universal blood type, O-positive, will help many.

“My aunt had bone cancer, and she needed a lot of blood transfusions, so I want to help people in need.”

Torres also talked about the competition clubs on campus that are participating in the blood drive.

“The clubs do a fantastic job in promoting the blood drive, they are

phenomenal,” he said.

During the Spring Banquet, The top club who brings in the most donors will receive the crystal blood drop trophy and a pizza party.

The last formal blood drive will be in April.