More than 250 pints of blood were donated in a competition between Troy University and the University of South Alabama during the TROY Student Government Association’s annual Fall Blood Drive on Oct. 7-8. TROY won the competition with 139 pints donated.

At TROY, a total of 62 pints of blood were collected from 57 donors on Monday, and Tuesday saw 71 donors give 77 pints for a combined total of 128 donors and 139 pints. Of the 128 donors, 11 were Power Red donors, meaning they donated two pints instead of one.

In total, TROY’s donations are expected to help save 417 lives. 

“We had an amazing turnout from the student body, faculty, staff and even the local community. This blood drive has been crucial to saving more lives than we know,” said Anna-Marie Fulton, Homecoming Committee Blood Drive Coordinator. “Whether we realize it or not, those two days will impact so many of the lives around us, and I am proud to say that we had a part in it. I am very thankful for everyone’s support and dedication in making this blood drive happen and helping us do our part in saving 417 lives!”

The SGA typically hosts the Fall Blood Drive during the week of Homecoming, but moved the date up this year to coincide with South Hate Week. The blood drive was a competition between the rivals to see which institution could donate the most blood—USA participants donated 124 pints, bringing the total potential lives saved between the two universities to 789 off 263 pints of blood.

“Hosting the blood drive for the South Hate Week competition has been an amazing event these past two years. I love that we are putting our energy into helping our community, while also competing against our rivals,” said Sadaris Williams, Assistant Director of Student Involvement and Leadership. “I hope this tradition continues, and we continue to win it as well!”

The blood drive comes at a crucial time as the American Red Cross is experiencing an urgent need for donations in the wake of hurricanes Helene and Milton.

Donors must be in good health, at least 16 years old in most states and weigh at least 110 pounds. Whole blood donors are eligible to donate every 56 days, up to six times a year. Power Red male donors must be at least 17 years old in most states, at least 5’1 tall and weigh at least 130 pounds. Power Red female donors must be at least 19 years old, at least 5’3 tall and weigh at least 150 pounds. Power Red donors are eligible to donate every 112 days, up to three times a year.

For more information on donation types and requirements, visit here.

To find the nearest blood drive or donation site, visit here.