The American Red Cross invites the community to be part of a special milestone: the 20th annual Pocono Raceway Blood Drive and Ride for the Red, taking place on July 8. For two decades, generous blood donors have helped save lives through this unique event, which has collected more than 3,300 blood donations since its inception.

The goal of this year’s blood drive is to collect more than 100 units of blood to help patients at a time when donations tend to decline. The busy summer season can keep people from giving, but patients still rely on lifesaving blood. Additionally, the increased risk of severe summer weather can quickly impact the ability to collect blood, making community support for this drive more important than ever.

The blood drive takes place at the Pocono Raceway Media Center (1234 Long Pond Rd., Long Pond, PA 18334) from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Donors are asked to enter through the Tunnel Entrance/Gate #1 on Long Pond Road.

Blood donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visiting RedCrossBlood.org and entering sponsor code POCONO.

All presenting donors will be entered into a drawing for a chance at one of three prizes, courtesy of Pocono Raceway:

• One six-lap Ride Along Stock Car Experience voucher, courtesy of Stock Car Racing Experience and one double-seater UTV Tour Experience voucher, courtesy of Pocono Outdoor Adventure Tours.

• $200 Pocono Raceway gift card.

• $100 Pocono Raceway gift c

All presenting donors will receive a customizable pair of American Red Cross x goodr “Just My Type” sunglasses, while supplies last. For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/goodr.

From noon to 7 p.m., take a lap around ‘The Tricky Triangle’ at Pocono Raceway in your own vehicle for a financial donation of your choice to benefit American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Blood Donors can participate in the Ride for the Red before donating blood.

You do not need to donate blood to participate in the Ride for the Red. To donate, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.

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.