FOXBOROUGH, Mass. - Since 2002, Gillette Stadium has hosted countless memorable events. From championship games to sold-out concerts, Gillette Stadium has provided entertainment and smiles to millions of fans. 

Starting on April 13, New England's premier sports and entertainment venue will be hosting a much different type of event - one that will save lives.

Gillette Stadium has teamed with the Kraft Family Blood Donor Center at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham & Women's Hospital to host a series of blood drives. Nine donation drives have been scheduled for April and early May.

Due to the coronavirus outbreak, hospitals across the globe have seen a severe shortage in blood donations. Donating blood has been deemed an essential service by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It is still safe to donate blood during this pandemic and eligible and healthy donors are strongly encouraged to make a donation. The CDC is supporting this effort by providing recommendations that will keep donors and staff safe.

The blood drives will begin on April 13 by appointment only. There are no walk-ins allowed. Interested donors are encouraged to read all of the health and safety guidelines provided by the Kraft Family Blood Donor Center before making a potential life-saving donation.

To learn more about this initiative or to schedule an appointment, click here.