The American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donations as hospitals resume surgical procedures and patient treatments amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Ilitch organization, for the third consecutive year, will host the Red Cross and Anheuser-Busch at Little Caesars Arena for a One Team blood drive on Tuesday, Aug. 4 from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
“The need for blood is constant,” said Beth Frahm, donor recruitment account manager with the Red Cross. “Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion. We are thrilled to again partner with the Ilitch organization and Anheuser-Busch to ensure blood products are available to those in need.”
The blood drive will take place on the arena’s 60,000-square foot Via Concourse, which will allow for safe social distancing. Free parking is available for donors at the Henry West Garage, located at 128 W. Fisher Service Dr. Attendees will have a chance to spin a wheel to win prizes, including sports memorabilia and gift cards, while supplies last.
Anheuser-Busch, the country’s largest sponsor of live sports and entertainment, has redirected sports and entertainment investments to its non-profit partners to respond to the COVID-19 public health crisis. As part of a $5 million donation to the American Red Cross, Anheuser-Busch, alongside its sports partners, identified available arenas and stadiums to be used for temporary blood drive centers, which includes Little Caesars Arena, home of the Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Pistons.
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.
