Want free tickets to the Tulsa Zoo this summer?

Tulsans will receive two free zoo tickets for donating blood now until August 28 thanks to a new partnership between Oklahoma Blood Institute and the Tulsa Zoo.

Every person that donates at the Tulsa donor center or an OBI blood drive in northeastern Oklahoma will receive a voucher for the tickets. Donors will also get a free “FEEL COOL” t-shirt featuring a snow leopard, a free health screening and Donor Rewards points redeemable in OBI’s online store.

“We are very grateful to those who don’t let summer activities interrupt their commitment to giving blood,” John Armitage, M.D., OBI President and CEO, said in a press release. “There’s no ‘vacation’ for those facing life-threatening conditions that require blood transfusions. We truly appreciate the Tulsa Zoo’s support of our mission, understanding the challenge of sustaining the blood supply during summer.”

Anyone at least 16 years old and healthy enough can usually donate blood. Donors may give blood as often as every 56 days.

OBI's Tulsa donor center is located at 4601 E. 81^st St. It is open weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., except Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon.

According to OBI, as many as three patients’ lives in area hospitals are saved each time someone donates blood.

To schedule an appointment to give or find a blood drive in your area, call OBI at 877-340-8777. More information here.