Community members will have an opportunity to help save lives this month during a blood drive at Highland High School.

The event is scheduled for Tuesday, March 24, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the high school’s auditorium. The drive is being held in partnership with the New York Blood Center and is open to eligible donors from the school and the surrounding community.

Organizers say the drive aims to help maintain the region’s blood supply, which hospitals rely on for surgeries, emergency care and treatments for patients with serious illnesses.

Students, staff and community members are encouraged to sign up in advance to reserve a time to donate, though walk-ins may be accepted depending on availability.

Health officials note that a single blood donation can help multiple patients because donated blood can be separated into components such as red blood cells, plasma and platelets.

In order to prepare for a blood donation, it is recommended that the person should eat well and hydrate, bring a photo ID or NYBC donor card, be symptom-free and meet minimum weight requirements.

In New York, donors who are 16 may give blood with parental consent, while those 17 and older may donate on their own.