The American Red Cross is teaming up with 3M and Roush Fenway Racing to launch Red Cross Racing, a campaign to engage NASCAR fans as blood donors and to raise awareness about the ongoing need for blood. Every two seconds, someone in America needs blood and the need is especially great during the summer months.
Race to the Halstead blood drive Monday, Aug. 11 from 2 to 7 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, 511 Chestnut St., to give blood. Call (316) 448-3543 or (800) GIVE LIFE (800-448-3543) to schedule an appointment. Everyone who comes in donate will receive a NASCAR lanyard. Please bring your donor card or photo ID.
The No. 16 Ford Fusion car will feature a full Red Cross paint scheme at the Phoenix race, at the end of the racing season. Driver Greg Biffle, a Red Cross blood donor and member of the Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet, will also wear a Red Cross fire suit at the race. The Red Cross logo will appear on the rear side panel of the No. 16 car in eight other races during the 2008 racing season.
“I’m proud to be an American Red Cross blood donor,” said Greg Biffle, driver of the No. 16 Roush Ford. “I give blood because it’s easy to do and helps support our community. I hope NASCAR fans across the country will join me this racing season to help save lives, one drive at a time.”
The Red Cross is also launching a new Web site, www.redcrossracing.com, where race fans can sign up and earn points every time they participate in a blood drive. Points are redeemable for Red Cross Racing branded items including caps, t-shirts, leather racing jackets and limited edition die-cast cars. All online participants will also be eligible to win an all-expense-paid trip for two to the Checker Auto Parts 500 at Phoenix International Speedway on November 9, 2008. The prize package includes airfare, hotel, and two race tickets.
“We hope NASCAR fans will follow Greg Biffle’s lead and support the Red Cross by donating blood,” said Pam Head, CEO of the Red Cross Central Plains Blood Region. “Red Cross Racing is a great opportunity for fans to become frequent blood donors.”
