Friendly's Offers A Sweet Reward During Connecticut's Urgent Appeal for Blood

(August 1, 2008) - Friendly's has teamed up with the American Red Cross to give presenting blood donors a sweet reward during the month of August to help save lives.

The American Red Cross has announced a two-week urgent appeal for blood donors in Connecticut. The urgent need for blood is expected to extend throughout the month of August.

All presenting donors at Red Cross blood drives throughout Connecticut will receive a coupon for one free carton of delicious Friendly's ice cream. The coupons can be redeemed at Friendly's Restaurants until September 30 and tax is additional where applicable. Coupons are not redeemable at grocery stores.

"We are thrilled that Friendly's is supporting our lifesaving mission with this initiative," said Paul Sullivan, CEO of the Connecticut Region. "Our blood inventory is currently low. Summer is a time when blood donations tend to dip due to travel, summer activities and the absence of high school and college blood drives. Prolonged and extremely high temperatures can also have an impact on attendance at blood drives. Because summer and ice cream just naturally go together, we hope this token of appreciation will encourage donors to come out and give the Gift of Life at this crucial time of year."

The Connecticut Region must collect 650 units of blood every day in order to maintain a sufficient blood supply. Blood transfusions are used for a wide variety of life-threatening conditions. Blood is used to treat trauma victims, surgical patients, people undergoing cancer treatment and premature babies, among others. It is the only medicine that cannot be manufactured but must come from caring volunteer donors.

To find a Red Cross blood drive, or for more information, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or visit online at bloodct.org.

The Need Is Constant. The Gratification Is Instant.

Give blood, cool off with a free carton of Friendly's ice cream and help assure blood is there when it is needed.