As students are well into the 2011-2012 school year, schools in the Crossroads area are encouraging students to give back to their community through blood donations. Thanks to their efforts, students now account for 21 percent of South Texas Blood & Tissue Center’s (STBTC) blood collection, a three percent increase from last year.

As an incentive to get students donating, schools with the largest number and highest percentage of blood donations for the school year will receive $1,000 gift certificates. In the past, students have elected to use these certificates to purchase school equipment, fund their events and for scholarships.

Local students are setting a great example for the community by donating blood and saving lives. The next drive is October 18, from 8:30 a.m. until 11:45 a.m. at Calhoun ISD, 525 N. Commerce, Port Lavaca. Visit www.southtexasblood.org for more information.