Just as a new school year started last week, 53 high schools in the tri-state area, including 12 in Hamilton County, received some extra money for programs, thanks to Blood Assurance.
The community blood center announced that through its Heroes Grant Program, the schools will share a portion of $52,500, ranging from $500 to $2,000 each, according to a news release.
In the Chattanooga area, the following schools were recognized:
› East Ridge High School: $1,500
› Boyd-Buchanan High School: $1,000
› Central High School: $1,000
› Tyner Academy: $750
› Chattanooga Christian School: $500
› Signal Mountain High School: $1,000
› Sale Creek High School: $750
› Hixson High School: $500
› East Hamilton High School: $500
› Soddy-Daisy High School: $500
› Red Bank High School: $500
› Collegedale Academy: $500
These schools held blood drives with Blood Assurance last year. Grant amounts were based on several factors, such as how many blood drives the school hosted during the year and the number of blood units collected.
"Blood Assurance receives about 15% of our blood from high school student donations," Linda Hisey, Blood Assurance's community engagement and development administrator, said in the release. "We know that these students are the future of blood donations, and we hope to educate and inform them of the vital need for blood."
The Heroes Grant Program is funded through proceeds from various events that take place throughout the year, such as golf tournaments and benefit concerts, according to the news release.
Since its inception in late 2021, the Heroes Grant Program has raised nearly $102,000 for dozens of high schools.
For more information about blood drives at schools, call 423-356-4368.
Max Winitz