Sixteen-Year-Olds Welcomed to Donate Life: STBTC launches teen donor initiative in Victoria Region

(Victoria, Texas January 30, 2009 ─ The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center (STBTC) is excited to launch their 16 year old donor initiative this February in the Victoria region. In an effort to ensure the blood needs of our patients and hospitals, STBTC would like to solidify the younger generation as the new “lifelong donor base.”

The current donor population is aging and with increased illness or medications, become unable to donate. Many teen donors have expressed a desire to donate blood and are excited to help make this contribution to their community. STBTC wants to help foster that community spirit within our high school population.

On Monday, February 2nd STBTC will receive its first 16 year old donors at Sacred Heart High School from 10am to 6pm. Hydration Stations and informational brochures will be provided at the blood drive. Everyday in south Texas, 600 units of blood are required in hospitals and emergency treatment facilities to help save lives of patients with cancer and other diseases, organ transplant recipients and accident victims.

Anyone 16 year of age must weigh at least 120 pounds, be in good general health and must have a signed parental consent form to donate blood. Anyone at least 17 years of age, weighing at least 110 pounds and in good general health may donate blood. Donors must present identification. For more information call 1-800-292-5534 or to download a parental consent form,