Long Wharf Theatre to host American Red Cross Blood Drive Sponsored News Channel 8 and My TV 9

Long Wharf Theatre is hosting an American Red Cross Blood Drive sponsored by News Channel 8 and My TV 9 on Friday, September 4 from 8 a.m. to 6:15 p.m.

The theatre is located at 222 Sargent Drive, towards the rear of the Food Terminal. Those interested in donating blood should plan to stay for about an hour. A Red Cross employee will have a brief discussion with potential donors to determine eligibility. Juice and snacks will be available to those who donate. Long Wharf Theatre will offer each presenting donor a voucher for $5 off a ticket to any of its 2009-10 shows.

This is the third consecutive year a blood drive has been held at the theatre and the first time News Channel 8 and My TV 9 has sponsored one of them. "News Channel 8 and My TV 9 is looking forward to promoting the vital American Red Cross blood drive at Long Wharf Theatre in New Haven. We hope to encourage potential blood donors in Connecticut to offer the gift of life to those who are in need. We feel that letting people know where they can donate blood is one way that News Channel 8 can make a difference in our community and our state," said Mary Lee Weber, Director of Community Development for News Channel 8.

The blood drive comes at a crucial time for the area's blood supply. Traditionally the summer is a difficult time to replenish blood supplies, due to schools being out, people taking vacations, unrelenting heat and long holiday weekends such as the upcoming Labor Day weekend.

To make an appointment, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or the Long Wharf Theatre box office at 203-787-4282.