DeKALB — With the demand for blood donations continuing year-round, the DeKalb County Health Center hosted a Vitalant blood drive on Tuesday at 2550 N. Annie Glidden Road. 

Vitalant is an independent, nonprofit blood and biotherapies healthcare organization as well as a blood supply provider.

Carlos Martinez, a driver for Vitalant, said the Vitalant bus operates every day.

“Every day, seven days a week,” Martinez said. “We average about 30 (people) a day.”

Horacio Canchola, phlebotomist for the blood drive, said Vitalant has different teams working from day to day and sets targets for the amount of blood donations.

“There could be about four or five blood drives in one day and different teams for every blood drive,” Canchola said. “Each blood drive has different goals, so one could be 20, one could be 50.”

He also gave recommendations to those who are looking to donate blood.

“Before you come in, come in with a full stomach, something that’s high in protein and close to about 40-60 ounces of water just to keep yourself hydrated during the process. The water does help out with the blood flow,” Canchola said.

He also explained the importance of donating.

Students must be at least 16 years old to donate blood, with written parental consent required for minors. Vitalant officials encourage anyone who can to donate, especially younger donors.

“It’s really nice to come out and donate. You just never know who might need it. It could be you, it could be someone that you know,” Canchola said. “Not that many people come out here and donate, so we’re trying to increase those numbers, especially with the younger generation. Hopefully, one day that number does increase.”

If interested in donating or attending upcoming drives, visit Vitalant’s website. Eligibility requirements can be seen here.