GROTON, Conn. – One club at Fitch High School hosted a successful blood drive last month, where students and staff could donate blood.

On Jan. 8, Fitch High School hosted a blood drive organized by the Keyette Club, which allowed both students over 17 and staff members to donate blood. They collected 22 pints of blood, saving up to 66 lives.

“My Keyettes do an amazing job setting up student appointments,” said Mrs. Karna Hopkins, advisor for the Keyette Club. “They typically go around to Jr and Senior CTLs to inform the students of the process and sign them up.”

Hopkins is no stranger to hosting these events. 

“I have been running the blood drives here at Fitch for the last 22 years,” said Hopkins.

One of the most gratifying things for her is being able to give back to the community and help those in need. And now, she notes, those who donate can learn more about the blood they donate.

“I find the students who donate find it rewarding that they can help save lives,” said Hopkins. “Now the Red Cross has an app that donors can log into to see when their donation gets used.”

Another blood drive is planned for March 18.