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Bleed Blue, Give Red: Islanders Host Blood Drive at UBS Arena
New York Islanders Team Up to Save Lives with Summer Blood Drive
The Big News: Hockey Heroes Helping Hospitals
The New York Islanders aren’t just scoring goals on the ice—they’re helping save lives off it! On Monday, August 3rd, the team is hosting a special blood drive at UBS Arena from 1:30 PM to 6:00 PM. They’re teaming up with the New York Blood Center (NYBC) to help fix a serious problem: hospitals are running dangerously low on blood.
IMPORTANT POINT: This summer’s blood supply is at its lowest level since the COVID-19 pandemic. That means hospitals might not have enough blood for people who desperately need it.
Why Is This Blood Drive So Important?
Think of blood like a special medicine that cannot be made in a factory. The only way to get it is from kind people who donate. Here’s why it matters:
- 1 in 7 hospital patients needs a blood transfusion (that’s getting blood put into their body)
- Blood helps people after car accidents, during surgeries, and when fighting serious illnesses like cancer
- Blood expires after a short time, so we always need fresh donations
- Summer is especially hard because regular donors go on vacation and schools (where many drives happen) are closed
Can YOU Donate? Let’s Check the Rules
Not everyone can give blood, and that’s okay! Safety comes first. Here are the basic requirements:
You CAN donate if:
- You’re in general good health
- You’re 17 years old (or 16 with a parent’s permission)
- You weigh at least 110 pounds
- You’ve been symptom-free from cold or flu for 72 hours (3 full days)
You might NOT be able to donate if:
- You’re feeling sick right now
- You recently got certain tattoos or piercings
- You traveled to certain countries recently
- You take specific medications
- You have certain medical conditions
Want the full list? Visit the NYBC Eligibility Page or their Common Reasons You Can’t Donate page for all the details.
Cool Perks for Donors!
The Islanders want to say a BIG thank you to everyone who donates. Here’s what you get:
- Two FREE tickets to a 2026-2027 regular season Islanders home game!
- Some exclusions apply (check details when you sign up)
- A chance to meet Sparky, the Islanders’ fun mascot!
- That amazing feeling of knowing you helped save up to 3 lives with just one donation!
The Islanders’ Long History of Helping
This isn’t their first rodeo! The Islanders have been partnering with NYBC since 2000—that’s over 20 years! Together, they’ve hosted 26 blood drives. That’s thousands of pints of blood and countless lives saved. Talk about a winning streak!
How to Sign Up: Step-by-Step Guide
Donating is easy! Just follow these steps:
Option 1: Online (Fastest!)
- Go to: donate.nybc.org/donor/schedules/zip
- Enter your zip code
- Find "New York Islanders Blood Drive at UBS Arena"
- Pick your time slot
- Fill in your info
- You’re all set!
Option 2: By Phone
- Call 1-800-933-2566
- Tell them you want to donate at the Islanders drive at UBS Arena
- Pick a time that works for you
Pro Tip: Appointments fill up fast! Sign up early to get your preferred time.
What Happens on Donation Day?
Never donated before? Here’s what to expect (it’s easier than you think!):
- Check-in – Show ID and answer health questions
- Mini check-up – They check your temperature, blood pressure, and iron level (just a tiny finger prick!)
- The donation – You sit in a comfy chair. A needle goes in your arm (feels like a quick pinch). It takes about 10 minutes.
- Snacks & rest – You get juice and cookies, relax for 15 minutes
- Go be awesome! – You just saved lives!
Total time: About 1 hour from start to finish.
Summary: Everything You Need to Know
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| What | New York Islanders Blood Drive |
| Who | Partnering with New York Blood Center |
| When | Monday, August 3rd • 1:30 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Where | Acrisure Great Hall, UBS Arena |
| Why | Blood supply at lowest level since COVID |
| Perks | 2 tickets to 2026-27 season + meet Sparky! |
| Sign Up | Online or call 800-933-2566 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does donating blood hurt?
Just a quick pinch when the needle goes in—like a flu shot. After that, you barely feel it! Most people say the anticipation is worse than the actual donation.
How long does it take to recover?
Your body replaces the fluid (plasma) within 24 hours. Red blood cells take a few weeks, but you’ll feel normal after a good meal and lots of water. Avoid heavy exercise for the rest of the day.
Can I donate if I’m afraid of needles?
Totally normal fear! Tell the staff—they’re experts at helping nervous donors. You can look away, listen to music, or bring a friend for support. Many needle-phobic people donate regularly!
What if I don’t know my blood type?
No problem! They’ll test it when you donate. You’ll find out your type (A, B, AB, or O, plus positive or negative) on your donor card or app later.
Can I bring my kids to watch?
Kids are welcome in the waiting area, but only donors can be in the donation area for safety. It’s actually a great way to teach kids about helping others!
Ready to Be a Hero?
One hour of your time. One pint of blood. Up to THREE lives saved.
The Islanders are doing their part—now it’s your turn! Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or just someone who wants to help, your donation matters more than ever this summer.
Book your appointment now or call 800-933-2566
See you at UBS Arena! Go Isles!
