Arroyo High School will partner with the American Red Cross to host a community blood drive on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, offering residents an opportunity to donate blood and support regional health needs at the start of the new year. The event is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the main hall of American Legion Post 261 in El Monte.
The blood drive will take place at 4542 Peck Road and is open to eligible donors throughout the San Gabriel Valley. Organizers are encouraging community participation, noting that winter months often bring a drop in blood donations while demand from hospitals remains steady.
Event Details and Location
The Arroyo High School blood drive will be held off campus at American Legion Post 261 to provide a centrally located and accessible venue for donors. The site will be staffed by trained American Red Cross personnel responsible for donor screening, blood collection, and post donation care.
Appointments are preferred to help manage donor flow, though walk ins will be accepted throughout the day as space allows. Donors can schedule an appointment online or through the Red Cross Blood Donor App using the sponsor code ArroyoHS, or by calling the Red Cross directly.
The drive is part of the American Red Cross “Give Something That Means Something” campaign, which highlights the role of volunteer donors in maintaining a stable blood supply nationwide.
Incentives and Eligibility
As an added incentive, donors who give blood between Dec. 19 and Jan. 4 will receive a limited quantity long sleeved Red Cross T shirt, while supplies last. Organizers noted that incentives are intended to thank donors while keeping the focus on the lifesaving impact of blood donations.
Standard Red Cross eligibility guidelines apply. Donors must bring a valid photo identification and meet age, weight, and health requirements at the time of donation. The donation process typically takes about an hour, including registration, screening, and recovery time.
Community Impact
School supported blood drives have become a regular way for Arroyo High School to connect students and families with broader community service efforts. By hosting the event during winter break, organizers aim to reach residents who may have more flexible schedules.
The American Red Cross supplies blood and blood products to hospitals across Southern California, with local donations often remaining within the region. Each donation can help multiple patients, including those undergoing surgery, cancer treatment, or emergency care.
Residents interested in participating can find scheduling information and eligibility details at https://www.redcrossblood.org. Organizers encourage early sign ups to help ensure steady donation levels throughout the event.
The Arroyo High School blood drive reflects an ongoing effort to promote civic involvement while addressing a critical public health need in the Mid Valley area.
