It is said that the best gift a person can receive is the gift of life. With the blood supply critically low in San Diego County right now, the gift of life is certainly more important than ever. Over the holidays, there was a drop in donations and as a result blood is more in demand than ever.

Fortunately, the UCSD athletic department is eager to do all it can to alleviate the problem.

Each quarter, the athletic department participates in a community outreach activity, and this winter the activity is a blood drive.

This Tuesday, the athletic department, working in conjunction with the American Red Cross, will be sponsoring the blood drive.

Associate Athletic Director Ken Grosse has taken a genuine interest in encouraging UCSD students and faculty to donate blood. The goal is to get everyone involved and ultimately to help increase the blood supply.

“”We’re looking to generate at least 125 units of blood,”” Grosse said.

Students who are interested should call the athletic department at (858)534-4211 or (858)534-8460 and sign up to donate blood.

The blood drive will take place in the green room of RIMAC, which can be entered through the Arena. The doors will be open from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Most slots are taken by coaches and athletes, so if more students participate, the turnout will be phenomenal.

Keep in mind that it does not take much effort to give blood. Here are 10 great reasons to donate, according to Blood Centers of the Pacific Online:

– Blood transfusions save lives.

– There is no substitute for human blood.

– Every three seconds, someone needs a blood transfusion.

– About 60 percent of the population is eligible to donate blood, yet less than 5 percent do so.

– A pint of blood, separated into components, can help up to three people.

– You will make your community a safer and better place.

– Donating fulfills your desire to “”give back”” to the community.

– You will receive a mini physical (blood pressure, temperature, iron level).

– You will learn your blood type.

– It is safe, simple and it saves lives.

So, if you are at least 17 years old, are in good health and weigh at least 110 pounds, come to the green room at RIMAC on Tuesday or call the athletic department to set up a time when you can come in and donate some much-needed blood.

The UCSD athletic department has done its part in establishing this wonderful opportunity, so the least students can do is show an equal commitment to the San Diego community by giving a little.