Giving blood is a selfless act. The hour it takes to give the gift of life can mean a lifetime to a patient with a serious medical need. Patients are counting on lifesaving care now and all season long.

For this reason, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a ‘Give Thanks’ Blood Drive on Tuesday, November 21. The community is invited to give back and help save lives from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the lobby area of Gainbridge Fieldhouse, 125 S. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis, IN 46204. All presenting donors will receive a free ticket to the circus, while supplies last in conjunction with The Greatest Show On Earth performing at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Dec. 1-3.

Blood is a perishable product that can only come from generous volunteers. By donating blood, individuals can make a difference in the lives of patients in their community and throughout the nation. Schedule an appointment by visiting RedCrossBlood.org and entering sponsor code: ringlingbrosindy. You can also call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Signing up for the blood drive is the only way to participate in this event and earn an extra ticket with juggling or participating in the canned food drive.

An added bonus, and to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the film “Elf,” and create holiday cheer, all who come to give Nov.10-30 will receive an exclusive pair of "Elf” + Red Cross socks, while supplies last. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Elf for details.

How to donate blood
A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

 About the American Red Cross Indiana Region:
The American Red Cross of Indiana Region serves 6.9 million people in 104 counties in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Ohio through its six chapters: Central, Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, Southwest, and Greater Indianapolis (Regional Headquarters). The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit us at Redcross.org/Indiana or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @indianaredcross. LinkedIn: American Red Cross of Indiana.