The Hoxworth Blood Center, affiliated with the University of Cincinnati, is collaborating with the Cyclones hockey team and several local businesses for the biggest blood donation event of the year, set to take place from Feb. 9-11 at the Heritage Bank Center. This annual Queen City Blood Drive encourages Cincinnati residents to support their community by contributing much-needed blood donations during a time when such generosity can be literally life-saving.
According to a statement obtained by the University of Cincinnati, the Queen City Blood Drive is more than just a chance to help out, it's also an opportunity for donors to grab some goodies as a thank you for their contribution. Donors will receive a free T-shirt featuring the Queen City logo and free vouchers for two Cincinnati Cyclones tickets, a Donatos Pizza, and a Flying Pig Marathon bag, while supplies last. To help make the event even more accessible, there will also be free parking available at the Central Riverfront Garage courtesy of ACE Parking and Hamilton County.
The University of Cincinnati article shares a sentiment from Kristin Ropp, vice president and general manager of the Cyclones, who emphasized the growth of the annual event and expressed gratitude for the community's support. "The work they do to support the health and well-being of the Cincinnati community is truly inspiring. We are honored to take part in the Queen City Blood Drive each year," Ropp said.
Blood donation appointments are highly recommended due to the event's popularity, but Hoxworth will accept walk-ins as scheduling permits. Those interested are encouraged not only to sign up to secure their spot but also to prepare to potentially wait because of the high turnout expected. To ensure your donation process goes smoothly, you can schedule a donation or learn more by visiting Hoxworth's website, using their mobile app, or calling their line.
Additionally, in a celebration of both Hoxworth's founding in 1938 and the community spirit exemplified since then, the blood center is offering a vintage crewneck sweatshirt as a special donor gift throughout February. As the city reflects on its own past—from the extraordinary sport feats like Johnny Vander Meer's consecutive no-hitters to the perseverance shown after the 1937 Ohio flood—Hoxworth presents this vintage swag to honor the generations of neighbors who have been saving lives together. Donors can get these sweatshirts at Neighborhood Donor Centers and select mobile drives while supplies last.
Hoxworth reminds us that despite the weather's challenges and the ebb and flow of seasons, the need for blood remains constant. As we move past the winter and settle into the rhythms once again disrupted by snow and ice, there's a call to remember the ongoing urgency—the silent beckon for life’s sustenance. Those able to answer this call, be they veterans in the art of vein offers or novitiates taking their first timid step, play an integral role. Every pint given promises a brighter tomorrow for someone clinging to today.
