ESCAMBIA COUNTY - Children as young as 16 can now give the gift of life... As long as their parents approve.

Channel Three's Bill Pearson has more on why the minimum age to donate blood has been *lowered, and what some parents think of the change.

William Harris has been donating blood regularly for a few years now...

William Harris, father said, "There's always a need and I didn't used to do it but here in the last couple of years, with illness in the family, it occurred to me that I need to do it. So, I've been doing it ever since then."

But not enough adults have been like William.

Blood supplies around the state often hover around the critical mark... For example... The northwest florida blood center on nine mile road was empty most of the day monday.

So recently the rules were changed to allow children as young as 16 to donate to keep pace with demand and replace older donars who've become ineligible.

William's daughter is about to turn 16... And he likes the idea of her being allowed to give.

Harris: "I think it is necessary. When you get in here, you see the need and the supply unfortunately is not as good as the need. I think her donating is beneficial."

Local blood services leaders say expanding the eligible pool of donors from 18 to 16 is a great move... Because many people this age are eager to help.

Betty Roberts, with Northwest Florida Blood Services said, "They are willing to donate. They are very giving and I think its a wonderful thing to educate them to become a lifelong donor and to give back to the community. so, its a great opportunity."

But unlike 18 year old... Those between 16 and 18 must get permission from their folks.

Roberts: "Every time they donate, they must have a signed consent form from their parents."

Its approval that William Harris will be more than willing to give, once his daughter turns 16.

Harris: Youre dealing with a lot during the teenage years, but I think when they can do something positive and it only takes a few minutes of their time, the end result is something positive for once.

If you'd like to get a consent form so your 16 or 17 year old can donate... You can find one online.

Just visit our website at wear tv dot com... Then click on Newslinks.

Blood Donor Age Restrictions