More than 700 units of blood were donated during the Central Blood Bank's drive at Heinz Field yesterday, providing a needed boost for supplies that traditionally dwindle during the holidays.

Blood bank spokeswoman Lisa Cassidy said between 400 and 530 donors had been expected, but the turnout exceeded that despite the weather.

The Steelers have been working with the blood bank at this time of the year since 1992, Ms. Cassidy said, but this was only the second time that the team's Heinz Field locker room had been the scene of the collection.

Those who donated had the chance to meet Steelers players, see the locker room and take home T-shirts and souvenir yearbooks.

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