The Central California Blood Center is hosting a blood drive at Fresno State from Feb. 10–12, offering students the opportunity to donate blood on campus. The drive will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day in the Resnick Student Union Room 107.
The event is organized with Fresno State’s Jan and Bud Richter Center to help increase donations.
“Donating blood is a simple way to give back,” said Kayla Ferreira, student programs and events coordinator. “Just one blood donation can save up to three lives.”
All donors will receive a voucher for a free drink from Dutch Bros, which will be redeemable at the Dutch Bros trucks on campus during the event.
For some students, the drive represents a way to give back to the community. Melissa Jauregui, a senior biology major, said donating blood gives her a sense of purpose.
“Donating blood makes me feel like I’m really doing something that matters, even in a small way,” Jauregui said. “It reminds me that even small actions can save lives and bring hope to others. I feel accomplished and grateful that I can make a change in the world.”
Campus blood drives help keep hospitals throughout the Central Valley supplied. Hosting donation events at Fresno State allows students to participate without leaving campus, which could encourage more students to donate.
Marco Almanza, a senior computer engineering major, said his decision to donate is shaped by personal experience.
“Giving blood is important to me because I saw firsthand how people depend on it,” Almanza said. “My father was in the hospital in 2020 and was given blood from donors. Ever since then, I have done what I can to help others. Even if I’ll never see them, I know I’m making a difference.”
Nicholas Amely, a senior electrical engineering major, said campus drives can strengthen community ties.
“Our Central Valley is strongest when we take care of each other,” Amely said. “Blood donation is one powerful way to do that, and doing so on campus is quick, easy and rewarding. Plus, free Dutch is impossible to ignore.”
Students who are interested in donating can sign up through the Central California Blood Center or visit the drive during operating hours. Participants can complete the required health questionnaire in advance through QuickPass on the day they donate blood.
For more information about this event and future blood donation events, visit the Central California Blood Center on Instagram.
