Save The Date: Santa Cruz Warriors Blood Drive

From the American Red Cross:

The Santa Cruz Warriors are midway through their third season at the Kaiser Permanente Arena. While it is too soon to know how the season will turn out, the team remains committed to giving back to the community off the court. They will do just that with their third annual blood drive and community preparedness event on Saturday, Jan. 31.

“We recognize the importance of coming together as a community to help meet this critical need and ultimately save lives,” said Jim Weyermann, president of the Santa Cruz Warriors. “There is nothing more important than having enough blood available to treat emergency cases where blood is needed.”

The winter months are traditionally a difficult time for the Red Cross to collect blood. Illness and inclement weather often prevent regular blood donors from making donations. Donors of all blood types are currently needed.

“Regardless of the weather’s impact on the blood supply, patients are counting on blood to be there when needed,” said Sara O’Brien, communications manager for Red Cross Blood Services in Northern California. “The Santa Cruz Warriors’ willingness to sponsor this annual event speaks to their commitment to actively participate in the community, make a difference in people’s lives and raise awareness about the need for blood.”

All presenting donors will be entered into a drawing for a pair of tickets to an upcoming Santa Cruz Warriors game and a t-shirt autographed by members of the team. (Game tickets and autographed t-shirt are non-transferable and not redeemable for cash.)

While walk-ins are welcome, donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment in advance.

Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code SCWARRIORS to schedule an appointment.

Santa Cruz Warriors Blood Drive

Saturday, Jan. 31, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Kaiser Permanente Arena, 140 Front St., Santa Cruz

Representatives from the American Red Cross Central Coast Chapter will be on hand from noon to 3 p.m. to provide information about the National Fire Safety campaign and latest Red Cross mobile apps.

“We are so pleased to be working with the Santa Cruz Warriors to bring another opportunity for Santa Cruz County residents to give the gift of life by donating blood as well as to learn how to prepare for when an emergency or disaster occurs in our community,” said Michele Averill, chapter executive of the Red Cross Chapter. “We are also looking forward to working with the team again on Red Cross Night, sponsored by PG&E, on March 1.”

Team jerseys will be auctioned off during the March 1 game to support local disaster relief and preparedness. Discounted tickets for the Red Cross section at the game are available by calling Camilla Boolootian at 831-600-4909 or online attinyurl.com/SantaCruzWarriors (offer code REDCROSS).

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at@RedCross.

About the Santa Cruz Warriors

The Santa Cruz Warriors are the Development League Affiliate of the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors play their home games at Kaiser Permanente Arena, located at 140 Front Street in Downtown Santa Cruz. The City of Santa Cruz has a tremendous fan base and vibrant basketball culture, and it offers the Warriors the opportunity to partner with local schools and non-profits. As has already been demonstrated in its first two years in operation, Kaiser Permanente Arena presents the city with its largest venue and the ability to attract conventions and events that would otherwise bypass the area.

--Image courtesy of SC Warriors on Facebook.

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