NY Blood Center Hits The Jackpot With Empire City Casino Blood Drive
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YONKERS, NY — While the gaming floor at Empire City Casino has seen its share of potentially life-changing payouts in recent months, more recently, the Hudson Valley institution was home to a potentially life-saving event.
Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts recently teamed up again with the New York Blood Center to host a community blood drive at the casino. Several elected officials were on hand to support the cause, including NYS Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, NYS Senator Shelley B. Mayer, NYS Assembly Member Nader Sayegh, Westchester County Legislature Minority James Nolan, Mount Vernon Councilmember Lisa A. Copeland, City of Yonkers Councilmember Shanae V. Williams, and City of Yonkers Councilmember Michael Breen.
"I am deeply appreciative of every person that chose to give blood today, and any day. Blood drives save lives, three lives for each donation," NYS Senator Shelley B. Mayer said. "The nation is facing a critical blood shortage, and through the help of every person today, we can help alleviate the shortage. Thank you to Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts and The New York Blood Center for your continued partnership during this annual blood drive."
Over 4.5 million Americans require a blood transfusion annually, with someone needing blood approximately every two seconds. Despite this enormous need, only 10 percent of eligible blood donors in the U.S. actually donate.
New York’s healthcare system requires almost 2,000 donations every day to meet the needs of the community. Empire City’s blood drive resulted in almost 40 donations that will be used to treat up to 114 patients in local hospitals.
"At Empire City by MGM Resorts, we pride ourselves on supporting organizations that provide direct services towards residents in the local communities in which we operate, as well as where our employees reside," said Ed Domingo, Senior VP and General Manager of Empire City Casino. "We are thankful to the New York Blood Center, elected officials, and donors that stepped up to make a difference in the lives of those in need."
MGM Resorts acquired Empire City Casino in January 2019 and volunteerism and philanthropy are deeply ingrained in the company culture and its workforce across the country, according to the casino's new owners. Empire City has continued to hold a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility through numerous philanthropic initiatives, including continued support of the New York Blood Center.
"Thank you to Empire City for setting up a blood donation drive in Yonkers this month. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Blood is essential to helping us," Westchester County Legislature Minority James Nolan said. "This life-saving procedure starts with all of us doing our part. Be the reason for someone’s heartbeat."
Find more information about Empire City Casino and its philanthropic efforts, on their website.
