Packers and Red Cross tackle blood drive

GREEN BAY, WI (WGBW) — The start of football season brings to mind thoughts of tailgates and watch parties, the green and the gold, and the cheer of the crowd.

It doesn’t often invoke thoughts of giving blood. The American Red Cross of Wisconsin and the Green Bay Packers want to change that with a blood drive. 

The Green Bay Packers Give Back Community Blood Drive will be on Wednesday, August 27, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Lambeau Field’s Johnsonville Tailgate Village. 

Rebecca Rockhill, Executive Director of the Northeast Wisconsin Chapter of the American Red Cross, said appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. They need donors of all blood types, especially platelet donors and those with type O blood.

“Our heartfelt thanks go out to the Green Bay Packers and the community for coming out and rolling up a sleeve to give,” said Rebecca Rockhill, Executive Director for the Northeast Wisconsin Chapter of the American Red Cross. “Just like on the field, it’s teamwork that saves lives. The need for blood is constant, and together, we’re helping to keep the community’s blood supply strong and get blood to the hospitals that need it.”

This August, the heat is on to find blood donors. Summer can be a challenging time to find enough people to donate. Donors of all blood types are needed now, especially those with type O blood. 

August is Happiness Happens Month. Do good, give blood, and inspire happiness. 

Donors will have the opportunity to enter a raffle for a chance to win great prizes from the Packers. Free parking will also be available for this event in Lot 4 off Lombardi Avenue.

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). 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 in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), 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 old and younger must meet height and weight requirements.