In the time it takes for a lunch break, you could be saving three lives. That is how many people are helped with the donation of just one pint of blood. Here is your chance to make a difference.

On Tuesday, November 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Temple University Ambler Student Government Association and the Office of Student Life will host an American Red Cross blood drive in the Campus Lounge (Bright Hall). To make an appointment to donate, go to redcrossblood.org (donor code templeambler). Walk-ins are welcome and sign-up sheets are additionally available in the Office of Student Life office in Bright Hall. All donors should bring along proper identification.

According to Rosemarie Fabiano-Kloss of the Penn-Jersey Region of the American Red Cross, the Red Cross "needs 1,000 pints of blood a day for the 100 hospitals that we service in the region."

"One pint services three lives and that could be anyone from babies to adults, the elderly or victims of tragedy. One pint provides essential red blood cells, platelets and plasma," she said. "Type O negative is the universal donor type and is always needed. We encourage all blood types to donate."

Donors must be at least 17 years of age and weigh at least 110 pounds. There are a few restrictions, which are explained to potential donors at check-in, said Fabiano-Kloss. For example, someone who has gotten a tattoo in Pennsylvania, must wait a year to give blood following the procedure.

"The number one reason for a blood transfusion is in fighting cancer. If you know someone who has cancer or has battled cancer, then you know someone directly affected by blood transfusions," she said. "Donating can be a little scary at first, but it is worth it. You really are helping save three lives at the very least."

According to Ambler Student Government President Alaina McGinley, "our goal this semester is to sign up 40 people for the drive."

"It's essential that we get as many people as we can to donate. Giving blood really is a simple process," she said. "It doesn't hurt, there isn't a large time commitment and you feel great afterward because you know you're helping people."

For more information on the blood drive at Temple University Ambler or to schedule an appointment, contact 267-468-8425 or osl@temple.edu. For more information on other American Red Cross blood drives in your area, call 1-800-RED CROSS.