Gun Lake Casino will partner with Michigan Blood to host a blood drive on the casino property in Wayland, Mich., on Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2014.

“We recognize that this is a high-need time of the year for blood banks,” said Brent Arena, vice president and general manager for Gun Lake Casino. “By partnering with Michigan Blood, we’re hoping we can help to save lives in Michigan this holiday season.”

The blood drive will take place at the west entrance of the casino from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. As a special thank you, each donor will receive a certificate for $10 in free slot play. Certificates will be redeemable at the Gun Lake Casino Rewards Center.

The holiday season is always a high-need time for blood. Gun Lake Casino and Michigan Blood hope to alleviate some of that need with this blood drive.

“The need for blood never takes a vacation,” said Val Gent, community relations coordinator for Michigan Blood. “Someone needs blood every two seconds and on average, one out of seven people entering the hospital will need blood. Each donation can save as many as three lives. If you donate through Michigan Blood, the blood is given to local hospitals and helps people within our local communities.”

 

Donors are encouraged to make an appointment by calling 1-866-MIBLOOD or visiting miblood.org, but walk-ins are welcome. Donors must be at least 21 years old.