Honor. Remember. Give.: SunCoast Blood Centers and Gecko’s Grill & Pub Host September 11 Blood Drive

Longtime community partners invite the community to turn remembrance into lifesaving action

SARASOTA-BRADENTON, Fla. — This September 11, SunCoast Blood Centers and Gecko’s Grill & Pub are inviting the community to honor the day through service by giving blood and helping local patients.

The Honor. Remember. Give. Blood Drive will take place Friday, September 11, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at four participating Gecko’s Grill & Pub locations across Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Building on a longstanding community partnership, the event offers residents a meaningful way to remember the lives lost, honor those who answered the call, and continue the spirit of service through blood donation.

Each successful donor will receive a $50 Gecko’s Grill & Pub gift card, while supplies last.

Blood donated through SunCoast Blood Centers helps patients right here in our community. One blood donation can help save up to three lives and support patients when blood is needed most.

“September 11 reminds us of the extraordinary impact people can make when they come together in service to others,” said Scott Bush, CEO of SunCoast Blood Centers. “Giving blood is a simple but powerful way to honor that spirit while helping patients right here at home.”

Participating Gecko’s Grill & Pub Locations

Stickney Point
6606 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

Clark Road
5585 Palmer Crossing Circle, Sarasota

Fruitville
351 N. Cattlemen Road, Sarasota

SR 70 Twelve Oaks Plaza
7228 55th Ave. E., Bradenton

Appointments are recommended, and walk-ins are welcome.

Donors can select their preferred Gecko’s location and reserve a donation time at:

suncoastblood.org/geckos-blood-drive-honor-remember-give/

About SunCoast Blood Centers

SunCoast Blood Centers is a nonprofit community blood center serving patients throughout Southwest Florida. Through the generosity of local blood donors and community partners, SunCoast helps ensure lifesaving blood products are available when and where they are needed.

For more information or to schedule a blood donation, visit suncoastblood.org or call 1-866-97-BLOOD.

Media Contact

Tanja Malkovich

Director of Marketing and Community Engagement SunCoast Blood Centers 941-954-1600 ex. 145

tmalkovich@suncoastblood.org suncoastblood.org

Media Note: Interviews and visual opportunities may be available with SunCoast Blood Centers and Gecko’s Grill & Pub representatives, and SunCoast’s teal bloodmobiles.