Pistons Team Up with Red Cross for Hurricane Sandy Relief

Detroit PistonsAUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The Detroit Pistons and its Come Together Foundation announced a partnership with the American Red Cross to contribute $15,000 and thousands more from the proceeds of the Pistons 50/50 Payday Raffle and an in-arena auction of: Ownership’s courtside seats, signed Pistons items, and unique Pistons experiences with Pistons players, coaches and personalities – all for Hurricane Sandy relief.

Beginning tonight, Nov. 12, a series of three auctions will be held throughout the arena on the Main Concourse and in the Clubs at Pistons home games against the Oklahoma City Thunder; on Friday, Nov. 16 against the Orlando Magic and on Sunday, Nov. 18, against the Boston Celtics. The full list of items available for auction can be found here.

American Red Cross volunteers will sell 50/50 Payday raffle tickets at Pistons home games on Nov. 16 and Nov. 18, with proceeds going to Hurricane Sandy relief. Using wireless technology, tickets are sold throughout Pistons games, generating larger cash prizes and raising more money for charitable causes.

“We know the victims of Hurricane Sandy were hit hard and wanted to help in any way we could, so we put together a package to support the American Red Cross’ extensive relief assistance,” said Dennis Mannion, President and CEO of Palace Sports & Entertainment. “In the spirit of our Come Together platform, we wanted to offer Pistons experiences to thrill our fans and drive awareness and dollars to help Sandy victims.”

More than three dozen American Red Cross volunteers and staff from southeast Michigan are currently on the East Coast, assisting families in need as they recover from the devastation of Hurricane Sandy and what La Forice Nealy, Regional Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross in Southeastern Michigan, called “the most expensive relief effort in U.S. history.”

The American Red Cross volunteers will also be recognized as our Come Together Game Changers, supporting volunteerism. And Pistons fans are also encouraged to text a $10 donation for Hurricane Sandy relief to the “REDCROSS” at 90999.

“The American Red Cross is very grateful to the Detroit Pistons for its generosity in response to Hurricane Sandy. The aftermath of this storm is staggering, and thousands of people are still in serious need of assistance,” Nealy said.

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