NEWARK, N.J. - The New Jersey Devils and official partner RWJBarnabas Health announced plans to host their second annual blood drive in coordination with the American Red Cross. The event will take place on Saturday, March 10, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at Prudential Center.

All presenting donors will receive a voucher for two tickets to a select Devils home game and a limited-edition New Jersey Devils blood donor T-shirt provided by Fusion, as well as chances to win autographed Devils merchandise. In addition, donors will have the opportunity to meet New Jersey Devils alumni Bryce Salvador and Bruce Driver, who will be available for photos and autographs. Free parking is available in the Parking Deck presented by Ford. Please note that prizes and gifts are not redeemable for cash and are not transferable.

"We have an obligation as an important community asset to help create positive change in people's lives," said Jeff Scott, vice president of community and grassroots at Prudential Center. "Partnering with RWJBarnabas Health and the Red Cross each year is one of the most important and impactful days on our calendar, and we look forward to making a difference again this year.

"RWJBarnabas Health patients across the state will require over 80 thousand units of blood this year to sustain or save their lives," explains Sally Wells, Blood Services Business Development Liaison at RWJUH in New Brunswick. "Local and state blood supplies right now are still low post-holiday season due to the weather and the flu. This partnership provides a unique opportunity for us to work together and increase much needed local blood supplies.

The blood drive is open to the public. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins will be accepted, as space is available. To schedule an appointment, please call 1-800-REDCROSS or visit www.newjerseydevils.com/blooddrive.

How to donate blood

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.