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Bleed Blue: Islanders Host Critical Blood Drive at UBS Arena
New York Islanders Team Up with New York Blood Center for Life-Saving Blood Drive
What’s Happening?
The New York Islanders are partnering with the New York Blood Center (NYBC) to host a community blood drive — and you’re invited! This special event aims to help refill dangerously low blood supplies in our region.
When: Monday, August 3
Time: 1:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Where: Acrisure Great Hall at UBS Arena
Bonus: Donors get vouchers for two Islanders home games (2026–2027 season)
Special Guest: Sparky, the Islanders mascot, will be there!
Why This Blood Drive Matters
Right now, the regional blood supply is at its lowest level since the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s a big deal because:
- Blood donations save thousands of lives every year
- 1 in 7 hospital visits requires a blood transfusion
- There is no substitute for human blood — it can’t be manufactured
IMPORTANT:
The New York Blood Center says supplies are dangerously scarce. Every single donation counts — especially now.
Who Can Donate? (Eligibility Made Simple)
You can donate if you:
- Are in general good health
- Are 17 years or older (or 16 with parental consent)
- Weigh at least 110 pounds
- Have been symptom-free for 72 hours (no cold, flu, or fever)
- Meet other standard donor guidelines
Want the full details?
Visit the NYBC Eligibility Page or Common Reasons People Can’t Donate
Step-by-Step: How to Sign Up
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Go to the scheduling site:
donate.nybc.org/donor/schedules/zip -
Enter your ZIP code to find the UBS Arena drive
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Pick a time slot between 1:30 PM and 6:00 PM on August 3
- Confirm your appointment — you’ll get a confirmation email
Prefer to call?
Dial 800-933-2566 to book by phone
A Long-Standing Partnership
The Islanders and NYBC go way back:
- 26 blood drives hosted since 2000
- A shared mission: save lives in our community
- Hockey + humanity = a winning combo
What Do Donors Get?
| Perk | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Vouchers | Two (2) regular-season Islanders home games (2026–2027 season) |
| Meet Sparky | The Islanders mascot will be there for photos & high-fives |
| Good Karma | You helped save up to 3 lives with one donation |
Exclusions apply to game vouchers — check details at donation.
Summary
| Key Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Islanders + NYBC Blood Drive |
| Date | Monday, August 3 |
| Time | 1:30 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Location | Acrisure Great Hall, UBS Arena |
| Why It Matters | Blood supply at pandemic-era lows |
| Who Can Donate | Healthy, 17+ (16 w/ consent), 110+ lbs, symptom-free 72 hrs |
| Perks | 2 game vouchers (2026–27), meet Sparky |
| How to Book | Online or call 800-933-2566 |
FAQ: Your Questions, Answered
1. I’m scared of needles — does it hurt?
It’s just a quick pinch! Most people say it feels like a mosquito bite. The whole process takes about 45–60 minutes, but the actual donation is only 8–10 minutes.
2. Can I donate if I take medication?
Many medications are totally fine. Check the NYBC eligibility page or call 800-933-2566 to ask about yours.
3. What if I’ve had COVID recently?
You must be symptom-free for 72 hours before donating. If you had COVID, wait until you’re fully recovered and feeling 100%.
4. Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.) and wear a shirt with sleeves you can roll up. Hydrate and eat a good meal beforehand!
5. Can I bring a friend or family member?
Absolutely! Walk-ins are welcome if space allows, but appointments are strongly recommended to avoid waiting.
Final Thought
One hour of your time = up to three lives saved.
Plus, you get free hockey tickets and a high-five from Sparky.That’s a hat trick of goodness.
See you at UBS Arena on August 3!
