CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Navy Pier announced it will host a second blood drive with with the American Red Cross, following the success of the first one on May 4.
The second blood drive will take place Wednesday, May 20 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Pier's Food Experience.
While Chicago's iconic lakefront destination remains closed through the statewide stay-at-home order amidst the ongoing pandemic, the Pier is proud to utilize its large open space to support the Red Cross' initiative to help boost community health efforts and encourage blood donations from healthy individuals during these challenging and uncertain times," Navy Pier said in a statement.
According to Navy Pier, Monday's event drew 100 generous donors, producing 94 productive units and exceeding the Red Cross' Power Red collection goal for this drive.
As part of the partnership, the Pier featured the Red Cross logo on the Centennial Wheel hub and distributed complimentary ride tickets to donors, along with branded cooler bags and handwritten notes of gratitude. Additionally, Chicago Shakespeare Theater provided 150 face masks as part of their ongoing "Masks for Faces and Noses" project in partnership with UIC's College of Architecture, Design, and the Arts. Completely Nuts, one of the Pier's on-site establishments, also provided snacks and refreshments for donors.
The blood drive on May 20 will also include free Centennial Wheel tickets for everyone who attempts to donate, along with a "Navy Pier & Partners" prize package raffle, which can be redeemed for complimentary experiences at select on-site establishments when the Pier reopens. Those interested in participating in the second blood drive can schedule an appointment. Slots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
City-wide, Navy Pier joins Guaranteed Rate Field, the Field Museum, Steppenwolf Theater and the Chicago Cubs as host institutions for Chicago Red Cross blood drives.
"Navy Pier's participation and partnership with the American Red Cross serves as a nod to the Pier's history and aligns with its longstanding mission and values. During World War I, the Pier served as a temporary home for military personnel, soldiers and the Red Cross. As a mission-driven organization and iconic Chicago destination, the People's Pier is proud to continue doing its part to serve and support the local community, especially during this time of need," the Pier said in a statement.
