With New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and multiple other states along the east coast being drastically hit and damaged from Hurricane Sandy, the American Red Cross and FEMA are asking those who are able to try and help your fellow Americans and give back. While we are all college students and strapped for cash, and for those of us who have family that are struggling during this time, it is understandable that you may not be able to donate money or buy supplies to donate. But there is a simple way to help that doesn’t cost you a dime and will only take maybe half an hour out of your day.

Donate blood.

According to the Red Cross website, blood is one of the largest supplies in demand during a time of disaster and all blood types are needed.  Type O is the highest in demand blood type because it can be given to any patient no matter what blood type they might be. Type O is found in 45 percent of Americans (both negative and positive) and a percentage of it is higher in those of Hispanic and African American descent. Type AB positive is always in short supply, and only three percent of people in the United States have AB positive blood. Both of these are at the top of the list needed for giving blood because they are used in large emergencies and are given to newborns whose blood type is not yet known.

You must be at least 17-years-old, 110 pounds and in good health to donate blood. For a more extensive list of requirements please visit the Red Cross website at www.redcrossblood.org

There are two blood drives taking place in the Pleasantville area. The first is to happen right here on the Pace University Pleasantville campus Nov.14 from 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. The second will be at the American Red Cross of Westchester County, Nov. 16 from 12:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

If you wish to donate sooner than these dates you can call the Red Cross and schedule an appointment at another drive.

So while it might be scary to have a needle in your arm or the sight of blood makes you sick, know that by giving a stress ball a few squeezes you will help those who Sandy hurt.