Second annual 'Hell is Real' blood drive competition kicks off Aug. 1

The Hell Is Real Blood Drive Competition between FC Cincinnati and the Columbus Crew is back and runs from August 1-31. Fans can donate blood, sign up to volunteer, give financial gifts or host a blood drive throughout the month of August at seven participating Hoxworth locations and select mobile blood drives in the tristate.

All fans who donate blood in August at any of our seven neighborhood donor centers or select blood drives throughout the tristate area will receive a free “I Bleed Orange and Blue” T-shirt thank you gift (while supplies last).

Last year, more than 17,700 FCC and Crew fans registered to donate blood.

"This competition is a great way for fans to show their support for FC Cincinnati and help save lives in our community. Hoxworth Blood Center has been a long-standing community partner and we are proud to take part in this second annual competition,” said Kate Solomon, SVP, community & youth engagement, FC Cincinnati. “Our fans have shown tremendous support of this drive in the past, and we hope this taps into the rivalry to make an even greater impact on our region this year.”

"Partnering with FC Cincinnati has always been crucial in boosting blood collections during the challenging summer months. This year, we are even more enthusiastic about the Greater Cincinnati community's support for one of the top MLS teams," said Dr. David Oh, co-chair & CEO of Hoxworth Blood Center. 

"We are thrilled to see the Greater Cincinnati community rally behind FC Cincinnati and compete against the Columbus Crew. This collaboration will significantly impact blood donations in both Ohio communities," added Dr. Caroline Alquist, co-chair & CEO of Hoxworth Blood Center.

For more information on the blood drive or to schedule a donation, visit hoxworth.org/fcc.