DALLAS, Pa. — Penn State Wilkes-Barre recently held its annual blood drive benefiting THON and the American Red Cross.
The blood drive was held in Hayfield House in conjunction with the American Red Cross. The Red Cross donated $2 for every presenting donor, regardless of eligibility, to Penn State Wilkes-Barre Benefitting THON, a student organization that raises money to help battle childhood cancer. Donors also received a free T-shirt.
“I am truly delighted by the opportunity we have to host two blood drives at Penn State Wilkes-Barre each year. It's not just about addressing the current blood donation shortage faced by the American Red Cross, but their reciprocal support of our THON efforts is also wonderful,” said Student Activities Coordinator John Vito Powell. “For our January blood drives, the American Red Cross contributes a monetary donation for every screened donor, further propelling our student-run THON group's mission to raise funds for childhood cancer throughout the year. These positive symbiotic relationships not only strengthen our community engagement and connections but also generate meaningful impacts across various fronts, fostering a spirit of positivity and compassion in the world."
This year’s drive saw 27 donors attend. The blood drive is one of several events that Penn State Wilkes-Barre’s THON holds throughout the year to raise money for the Four Diamonds Fund. All proceeds from the events go toward the cause of helping children and families in their battle against cancer. The combined efforts of all Penn State campuses are celebrated at THON Weekend in mid-February every year, a yearly dance marathon where the grand total will be revealed to students, Four Diamonds families and volunteers.
This year’s THON will be held Feb. 16-18 at the Bryce Jordan Center. This year, Penn State Wilkes-Barre will send two dancers to the event, along with other attendees.
To donate to the committee’s efforts to fight childhood cancer, visit the Wilkes-Barre THON Committee’s DonorDrive page.
