Penn State will host a series of blood drives for the American Red Cross throughout January and February. Each event is part of the BIG Heart Blood Battle, a competition against other Big Ten schools like Michigan, Michigan State, and Wisconsin.

Participants will be able to donate blood in the HUB on a handful of dates beginning January 19. They include:

• January 19
• January 20
• January 25
• January 27
• January 31
• February 1
• February 2
• February 8
• February 9

Blood donations are especially critical now right now as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. The American Red Cross has reported having dangerously low blood supply due to COVID-19, winter weather, staffing issues, and a limited supply chain.

All blood types are encouraged to donate, especially type O, to help patients in need.

To schedule an appointment, click here. Ahead of your appointment, it’s encouraged that you fill out a health history questionnaire to save time during the donation process. A driver’s license, blood donor card, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.

Last year, Michigan and Ohio State faced off in a similar blood drive competition. The Wolverines’ 1,594 pints topped the Buckeyes’ 1,099.