CRESTVIEW — Cold, dreary weather didn't stop many from donating blood today at Crestview High School.
Four bloodmobiles, including staff from Northwest Florida Blood Services, were in front of the school from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
"In the last three and half hours, we have already signed in over a hundred people," said Ashley Williams, community relations representative for Northwest Florida Blood Services in Crestview.
Attendance surpassed last year’s count.
"Last year, we had around 80 at this time," Williams said. "We're probably going to be doubling that this year."
CHS Leadership program and Health Observation Students Association members assisted in the blood drive by recruiting classmates and their parents to donate blood.
Snacks and other refreshments were available. Those who donated received a free T-shirt.
Resident Larry Berkley was convinced to donate by his daughter, Tiffany Berkley, a freshman in the Leadership program.
"I believe she gets credit in the (Leadership) program for every person she recruits to donate," Berkley said.
Gabreila Alonso, a senior, donated blood for her second time.
"I encourage everyone to donate blood, but it is understandable if they can't," Alonso said. "It's for a good cause and I highly recommend it."
Linette Solla, of Crestview, agreed.
"I think it's important to give blood and help save a life," Solla said. "It makes you feel good when you know that you are helping someone."
Her daughter, Ashley Diaz, a senior at the school, recruited her.
Today’s blood drive won’t meet long-term needs.
"We supply 20 hospitals in the area, so we are constantly needing blood," Williams said.
Contact News Bulletin Staff Writer Matthew Brown at 850-682-6524 or matthewb@crestviewbulletin.com. Follow him on Twitter @cnbMatthew.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Crestview High School students, parents donate blood