The Bears have announced a two-year partnership with Heartland Blood Centers, part of Versiti, which includes the "Type C Blood" High School Program that encourages high schools to host blood drives and get involved in their community.
"As a blood products provider to more than 70 hospitals in the Chicagoland area, Heartland Blood Centers is proud to call the Chicago Bears a partner," said Heartland Blood Centers site lead and medical director Dr. Alex Carterson. "An organization like the Bears, with its rich history and commitment to Chicago, is a natural fit for us. The 'Type C Blood' High School Program is the first step in what I hope will be a long-lasting and rewarding collaboration that enables more blood donors to save and impact lives in our community."
"Our partnership with Heartland Blood Centers is a great opportunity for us to work together in our communities supporting a meaningful cause," said Bears vice president of corporate partnerships Doug Carnahan. "We look forward to growing the 'Type C Blood' High School Program and helping raise awareness about the importance of donating blood."
Schools participating between May 26-Sept. 8 will be eligible to win both a pep rally with a current Bears player at their school and a VIP event at Halas Hall for 50 students. Additionally, each student who participates in their school's blood drive will receive a Bears giveaway. For more information, please visit: ChicagoBears.com/TypeCBlood.
About Heartland Blood Centers
Founded in 1943, Heartland Blood Centers is the oldest blood center in Illinois and among the oldest in the United States. Heartland Blood Centers has expanded over the decades to serve the growing needs of the Chicago metropolitan region and northwest Indiana.
Today, Heartland is the leading provider of blood and blood products in the Chicagoland area serving more than 70 hospitals. Heartland operates under a volunteer donor system with the goal of meeting the hospital blood needs. Heartland stands ready to assist other parts of the country during severe blood shortages, national emergencies and increased demands by the armed services. Learn more at versiti.org.
