Pirates and Central Blood Bank team up to host first blood drive of 2012 at PNC Park

The Pittsburgh Pirates have partnered with Central Blood Bank to host the first Pirates Blood Drive of 2012.  The drive is scheduled for Monday, March 5 from noon to 6 p.m. inside the PNC Park press conference room.

All participating donors will receive a pair of tickets to an upcoming game at PNC. Each participating donor will also receive a Pirates promotional item and be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a pair of tickets to Pirates Opening Day at PNC on April 5th vs. the Philadelphia Phillies.  In addition, Pirates alumni Grant Jackson will be on hand from 12 to 2 p.m. to take photos and sign free autographs for donors.

“We are very proud of our partnership with Central Blood Bank and once again would like to call attention to the importance of donating blood,” said Pirates President Frank Coonelly. “This is a great opportunity for our fans to join us and Central Blood Bank in making a difference in the Pittsburgh community as every unit of blood collected will directly impact our region.”

Limited free parking for the Pirates Blood Drive will be available in the lot across the street (Red Lot 6) from the press entrance on General Robinson Street.

Donating blood is important as each individual whole blood donor can make a difference by saving up to three lives. Last year, more than 1,000 units were donated at Pirates Blood Drives, helping to save more than 3,000 lives in the Pittsburgh region.

There will be ample opportunities for fans to participate as several Pirates Blood Drives will be held at PNC Park throughout the 2012 season. See below for the remaining dates:

• April 30
• May 1
• June 26-28
• August 30-31

For more information on donating blood or to schedule your lifesaving appointment, please call 412-209-7080 or visit www.centralbloodbank.org. Walk-ins are also welcome.