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Red Cross, Anheuser-Busch to host blood drive at Little Caesars Arena

Posted at 5:04 AM, Aug 04, 2020
and last updated 2020-08-04 05:04:26-04

DETROIT (WXYZ) — For the third consecutive year, the Ilitch organization will to host the American Red Cross and Anheuser-Busch at Little Caesars Arena for a One Team blood drive to address the urgent need for blood.

The event takes place Tuesday, Aug. 4 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on the arena’s 60,000-square foot Via Concourse, providing ample room for safe social distancing.

The Concourse is located at 2645 Woodward Avenue in Detroit.

Free parking is available for donors, at the Henry West Garage located at 128 W. Fisher Service Dr.

All attendees will have the chance to spin a wheel to win prizes including sports memorabilia, autographed items, and gift cards, while supplies last.

The Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donations to prevent another blood shortage as hospitals resume surgical procedures and patient treatments that were temporarily paused this spring in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The need for blood is constant. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion,” said Beth Frahm, donor recruitment account manager with the Red Cross. “We are thrilled to again partner with the Ilitch organization and Anheuser-Busch to ensure blood products are available to those in need.”

Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings for donors and staff – have been implemented to ensure the health of all those in attendance. Eligible donors are strongly encouraged to schedule an appointment by downloading the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) sponsor code: LCA313. Donors are required to wear a face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention public guidance.

“The annual blood drive at Little Caesars Arena is a critical event in our community. We look forward to providing a safe space for Detroiters to give blood, contribute to a great cause and help save lives across the country,” said Chris Granger, Group President, Sports & Entertainment, Ilitch Holdings, Inc.