The Christmas season, a time of the year defined by selfless giving, has arrived and students, teachers and administrators at Escambia County High School are asking local residents to take their generosity a step farther by donating blood next week to help a local student regain her health for the holidays.

Mary Ellen Ray, a freshman at ECHS, has been battling health issues her entire life, and she has spent much of her first year in high school at home in desperate need of a blood transfusion. Escambia County High School Principal Zickeyous Byrd said his students and teachers have decided to do all they can to help by rolling up their sleeves, literally, for a blood drive to be held Thursday, Dec. 13 on the school’s campus.

“It is the season of giving,” Byrd said. “We’re just hoping everyone will come out and support Mary Ellen so we can get her back in school where she belongs.”

The blood drive at will be held on in the ECHS gymnasium from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and Byrd said anyone and everyone is welcome.

“It is open to anyone who wants to come and help,” Byrd said. “I know Mary Ellen and her family will appreciate all of the help from the community.”

ECHS will furnish refreshments for blood donors and nurses will be on hand to take care of all participants.