The American Red Cross will sponsor a blood drive April 14 at Chilton County High School from 10:30 a.m. until 3 p.m.

The blood drive is held annually at the high school.

This year, those who donate blood will have the opportunity to win a cruise trip for two. During the month of April, blood donors at American Red Cross drive or donation center will be registered for a regional drawing for the cruise as part of the “Save a Life and Sail the Seas” promotion.

In addition, those who present themselves to donate blood during April will be given a Red-Cross T-shirt. To be eligible to donate blood, donors must weight at least 110 pounds, be at least 17 years old and be in general good health.

If you plan on donating blood, the Red Cross suggests you:

Double your fluid intake in the 48 hours leading up to the drive.

Eat a nutritious meal the night before, as well as the day of, the blood drive.

Eat iron-rich foods, such as lean beef, broccoli, eggs, greens, shrimp or dried beans.

Consume foods rich in Vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, cabbage, tomatoes and sweet potatoes.

Get a good night’s sleep before the drive.