Blood Drive

Details

York Tech will host a blood drive Friday, March 6, 2026, from 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. It will be held in the Spartan Arena, the school's original gymnasium. Participants must reserve a time in advance; walk-ins cannot be accommodated. (Specific sign-up instructions are listed below by category.) Everyone who donates will receive a blood donor t-shirt, Papa John's BOGO large pizza certificate, and water bottle.

Students

Students must be 16 or older to donate. Every York Tech student who wants to participate, regardless of age, must submit a completed parental consent form to the school nurse. When the form is turned in, the school nurse will assign each student a time during the school day to visit the Spartan Arena and donate.

Community Members

Adult members of the community are also encouraged to participate in the blood drive. Anyone wishing to participate must email York Tech's school nurse at smelhorn@ytech.edu to request an appointment time. On the day of the blood drive, community members must enter door #1, which faces Pauline Drive. Please have photo identification available upon arrival for entry into the school, and be prepared to complete the necessary blood drive paperwork before making a donation.

Staff

York Tech staff members may participate in the blood drive by contacting the school nurse and making an appointment at a time that won't require coverage.

Questions

Please contact York Tech's school nurse at 717-741-0820 x5124 with any questions.

Donor Rules

Is is important that all donors adhere to the Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank's donor rules for a safe and easy experience:

1. Down those fluids. Fluids help reduce the feeling of lightheadedness and lessen the chance of having a reaction after the donation, such as fainting. Fluids also make veins plump up, so they are easier to stick. Beginning the day before your donation, drink plenty of fluids, such as water and juice. Caffeine can make your body lose fluid, so skip it, if at all possible.

2. Eat a healthy breakfast and lunch. Having a good meal before a donation helps reduce the chances of having a reaction.

3. Catch some sleep. Be well rested. Get a good night's sleep the night before donating. Try not to be too nervous, if this is your first time.

4. Treat yourself right after your donation. Leave your bandage in place until you get home. Avoid heavy lifting with the arm used to give blood. We recommend no strenuous activity for 24 hours after a donation. Continue to eat well and drink lots of fluids. If your arm hurts after donating, an ice pack may help. You may take Tylenol, if you are allowed.