Versiti to host 'Season of Giving' blood drive at Milwaukee County Zoo

By: CBS 58 Newsroom

Posted: Dec 21, 2021 11:39 AM CDT

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) --The holidays are one of the best times of the year to visit the Milwaukee County Zoo, and now you can get in for free when you donate blood.

Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin is hosting its 21st annual 'Season of Giving' blood drive at the Milwaukee County Zoo on Monday, Dec. 27 and Tuesday, Dec. 28.

In addition to free zoo admission on the day of the donation, donors will also get a ticket for a future visit, a $10 e-gift card and a festive Bundt cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes. All donors will also automatically be entered into the Drive to Save Lives Sweepstakes to win an SUV.

According to Versiti, the need for blood continues to escalate as blood donations nationwide remain lower than average. The recent tragedies in the Midwest, coupled with the loss of many appointments due to holiday events, make the need even more urgent.

Versiti hopes to collect more than 500 units of lifesaving blood during the two-day drive.

To make an appointment, call 1-877-BE-A-HERO (1-877-232-4376) or make one online here.

The event will take place from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Monday and 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Tuesday at the Peck Welcome Center.

Parking will be free on-site.