MARYLAND (WBFF) — The University of Maryland kicked off its “We Give Blood” drive, competing with all Big Ten schools nationwide to see who can generate the most blood donations.
The goal is to win a $1 million grant amid a nationwide blood supply shortage.
The American Red Cross declared a national blood crisis after donations fell to a four-year low over the summer, threatening the availability of lifesaving blood for patients across the country.
Students, alumni, and fans from UMD can participate by logging any blood donation made on or after August 12 or by scheduling a donation at their nearest blood drive or center.
“I want to encourage all of Terp Nation to get out there to their local blood drive and give blood,” said Jim Smith, the Barry P. Gossett Director of Athletics at Maryland, via press release. “It really does make a difference in people’s lives. There’s a massive blood shortage in this country. We all have an opportunity to be able to give blood and give back and be a part of making someone else’s life a little bit better. When you can give 30 minutes of your time and give blood, you know you’re making a difference in someone else’s life, and that feels pretty good.”
Any blood donation made at a blood center in the U.S. between August 12 and December 4 can be counted towards the competition.
The first 300 donors in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area who donate at any of the following upcoming drives will receive a free ticket to the Maryland football game against Hampton on September 5:
How to participate:
To account for your blood donation in support of the University of Maryland, follow these three steps:
Anyone who donates and logs their donation between August 12 and December 4 will be eligible to receive an exclusive, limited-edition Maryland T-shirt, while supplies last.
Donation totals will be tracked at BigTen.org/Abbott throughout the campaign.
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