Help protect the blood supply this summer

The American Red Cross typically experiences a decline in blood donations during the summer due to vacations, activities, celebrations and holidays. To help maintain the blood supply this summer, the American Red Cross invites eligible donors to roll up a sleeve during the Brookfield Zoo Chicago Summer Blood Drive, Friday, June 7, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Discovery Center, 3300 Golf Road, in Brookfield.

As a thank you, all pre-registered blood donors will receive free general zoo admission the day of the drive for one adult and up to two children, plus free parking in the Discovery Center Parking Lot, and a special edition Red Cross t-shirt. Please enter through the South Gate entrance, (located at 3300 Golf Rd.) Show your confirmation to the gate attendant and follow the signs to the Discovery Center Parking Lot for free parking.

Donated blood may be used to help accident victims, surgery patients, organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer, or sickle cell disease. There is no substitute for donated blood products. Each day, the Red Cross must collect more than 12,500 blood donations to meet the needs of patients at approximately 2,500 hospitals across the country.

How to register to donate blood:

Simply download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter sponsor code: BrookfieldZoo 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 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 of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.