Gulf Coast Blood and Moody Gardens Partner to Give Blood Donors a Holiday Experience While Helping Save Lives

HOUSTON, Texas – Gulf Coast Blood is partnering with Moody Gardens for the first time to encourage blood donation during the holiday season and thank donors for helping patients across the region. 

Beginning Nov. 1, individuals who successfully donate blood at participating Gulf Coast Blood donor centers and mobile blood drives will receive a complimentary Moody Gardens Holiday Evening Pass while supplies last. 

The partnership brings together two nonprofit organizations with a shared commitment to serving the community. Donors can enjoy one of the region’s popular holiday attractions while helping ensure local patients have access to the blood products they need. 

The Moody Gardens Holiday Evening Pass includes admission after 4 p.m. and access to the Aquarium Pyramid, ICE LAND: Caribbean Christmas, Holiday Lights Trail, one 3D film, one 4D film, four Arctic Slide rides, one Kiddie Train ride and admission to the Ice-Skating Rink.  

“The need for blood doesn’t take a holiday break, and neither do the patients who rely on lifesaving transfusions,” said Theresa Pina, Chief Growth Officer at Gulf Coast Blood. “We’re grateful to Moody Gardens for partnering with us to recognize the generosity of blood donors and raise awareness of the ongoing need for blood this holiday season. We hope this partnership inspires more people to donate this winter and helps ensure local patients have the blood products they need.” 

The holiday season is traditionally one of the most challenging times of the year to maintain an adequate blood supply. School breaks, holiday travel and seasonal illnesses can reduce donor turnout, while hospitals continue to need blood every day for trauma care, cancer treatments, surgeries and chronic illnesses. 

Donating blood also offers an opportunity for donors to learn more about their health. Through Dec. 31, 2026, successful blood donors can receive a free cholesterol screening. No fasting or advance registration is required. Screening results will be available through the Digital Donor app, typically within two weeks, giving donors additional information to help them take an active role in their health. 

“At Moody Gardens, our mission is rooted in serving and enriching our community, which makes this partnership with Gulf Coast Blood especially meaningful,” said John Zendt, President and CEO of Moody Gardens. “Blood donors give one of the greatest gifts possible to someone they’ve never met. We’re honored to thank these individuals with a holiday experience they can share with family and friends while helping shine a light on the lifesaving impact of blood donation.” 

Every blood donation can help multiple patients in need. By donating, community members help ensure local hospitals have a safe and reliable blood supply for patients whenever emergencies arise. 

To schedule an appointment, visit GiveBlood.org or download the Digital Donor app.  

About Gulf Coast Blood 

Gulf Coast Blood is a leading nonprofit blood and biotherapies organization serving Greater Houston, the Texas Medical Center, and surrounding regions. As the area’s only 24/7 blood provider, it supplies lifesaving products to more than 170 hospitals and healthcare facilities across 26 counties.  

With an expanded mission focused on donor experience, innovation, and community impact, Gulf Coast Blood is advancing its role as a center of excellence in blood banking, biotherapies, and patient-centered care. Through industry expertise and strong community partnerships, the organization continues to lead efforts that strengthen the healthcare system and save lives across the Gulf Coast region.  

About Moody Gardens 

Moody Gardens is a public, nonprofit educational destination in Galveston, Texas, utilizing nature in the advancement of rehabilitation, conservation, recreation and research. Through its world-class attractions, educational programs and seasonal experiences, Moody Gardens serves millions of visitors each year while supporting its mission of education and conservation. 

 
Media Contact: 
Stephanie Jacksis 
Corporate Communications Manager 
Gulf Coast Blood 
sjacksis@giveblood.org 
832-476-7663 (cell)