Students donate blood

Patrina Pink, Gleaner Intern

STUDENTS OF the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, responded to an urgent appeal by the National Blood Transfusion Service for blood.

Officials of the service commonly referred to as the Blood Bank have reported that blood storage is at less-than-critical levels following the sharp increase in violent incidents in parts of Kingston, St Andrew and St Catherine.

President of the guild of students, Javaughn Neil, said his organisation was committed to meeting the needs of a bleeding nation. "I'd like to encourage all young people to recognise that we have a civic duty to render assistance to the country at this time. Going forward, we must reflect on what has happened and try and find positive ways to rebuild these communities," said Neil.

He expressed deep regret at the massive loss of life resulting from the battle between the security forces and alleged gunmen in west Kingston.

Neil is of the view that the recent occurrences in west Kingston present a unique opportunity for the transformation of Jamaica. "We must be dedicated to move past this crisis. The people of western Kingston have the help of the guild of students but they must also be willing to help themselves," said Neil.

UWI Mona students interested in joining the guild's blood drive can contact the students' union offices at (876)702-2463, email info@monaguild.org, or contact them at their Facebook page, 'The Office of the Guild of Students - UWI Mona'.