The blood spilled at the next professional hockey game on Long Island may not be from two stickmen slugging it out on the ice, but should get people cheering nonetheless.
The New York Islanders and the American Red Cross are teaming up for a blood drive at Nassau Coliseum before the NHL club plays the New Jersey Devils this weekend.
Donors will receive vouchers for two tickets to a 2012-13 Islanders regular season home game and a free entrée from Moe’s Southwest Grill as a thank you gift for helping replenish Long Island’s blood supply.
“By rolling up your sleeve, you may help provide lifesaving blood where and when it is needed,” said Donna Morrissey, a spokeswoman for the nonprofit Red Cross’ Northeast Division.
One healthy blood donor can save up to three lives in the half hour it takes to give.
The Islanders said turnout at the third annual event—the first of four planned blood drives at the Uniondale arena this year—is growing.
The Red Cross blood drive will take place in the Lower Box Office of the coliseum from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. before the puck drops at 7 p.m. Saturday, giving fans plenty of recovery time.
Walk-ins are welcome, but donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by visiting redcrossblood.org.
