KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) – MEDIC Regional Blood Center is combining football fever with a lifesaving mission as it launches its first-ever Tailgate Week blood donation campaign.
The special promotion will run September 14 through September 18 at MEDIC donor centers and mobile blood drives across East Tennessee, encouraging residents to donate blood while celebrating the return of football season.
As part of the event, everyone who donates during Tailgate Week will be automatically entered into a drawing to win two tickets to the Tennessee Volunteers versus Auburn Tigers football game.
In addition to the grand prize, donors will be entered into daily drawings for $50 Food City gift cards, giving participants multiple opportunities to win throughout the week.
MEDIC officials say every donor will also receive several promotional items, including:
- A special edition football-themed T-shirt
- Texas Roadhouse coupons
- GSM Cabin Rentals offers
- Papa John’s coupons
- Salsarita’s promotional offers
The organization is also providing an extra incentive for new donors. First-time donors who provide a valid email address will receive a $25 e-gift card.
MEDIC leaders hope the promotion will help boost blood donations during a time when blood supplies often face challenges and hospitals continue to rely on community donations to meet patient needs.
Blood donations collected during Tailgate Week will help support hospitals and patients throughout East Tennessee, including trauma victims, surgical patients, cancer patients and others requiring lifesaving transfusions.
Appointments are not required but are strongly encouraged to reduce wait times and help donation centers manage donor traffic.
Residents can find donor center locations, mobile drive schedules and appointment information by visiting http://www.medicblood.org.
MEDIC officials say Tailgate Week offers East Tennesseans an opportunity to support their community, help save lives and celebrate football season at the same time.
