Press Release

09/20/2018

KENNEWICK - The Benton Franklin Fair hosted a blood drive at the start of the Best Week of Summer.

Twenty-five donations were made with the potential to save 75 lives, according to the Red Cross.

Summer is an especially challenging time for blood donations, and the Red Cross considers the first-time effort by the Fair a great success.

"We truly appreciate the Benton Franklin Fair's commitment to saving lives by partnering with the Red Cross to maintain a safe and adequate community blood supply," said Shana Loomis of the American Red Cross Blood Services-PNW. "Every day people all across our region receive another chance at life because of the generosity, hard work and dedication of volunteers."

Donors were offered a pint-for-a-pint for giving blood at the Aug. 17 event. They received a coupon for a pint of beer at the Fair, a t-shirt and a free Fair ticket. Gesa Credit Union sponsored the event.

The Fair Association plans to make it an annual event and is excited to join with Red Cross on a community partnership.

"We are always looking for ways we can make a difference in the community," said Duane Howard, Fair Board President. "Working with the Red Cross to inspire people to donate blood during the challenging summer season is something we have wanted to do for a long time. We are proud that the Fair is a platform to assist other community organizations."