The need for blood is constant. Each year, 4.5 million Americans would die without lifesaving blood transfusions. Blood cannot be manufactured; it is always a gift from someone. Blood donors are a valued and significant life-line providing hope to those in need. Having a blood drive is a community service that allows donors to participate in selfless act of compassion. Blood drives help us ensure that hospitals have the blood supply they need for their patients. This is especially true during the summer months when blood donations go down and our blood reserves are used faster than they can be replenished.