The annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive is going strong after days one and two.
According to American Red Cross spokesperson Susan Faler on KVOE’s Morning Show Thursday, the drive brought in 139 pints of blood on day one Wednesday. The goal was 136 pints.
Faler says those pints have the potential to save up to 417 lives. The battle continued Thursday with donations being accepted from 8 am to 2 pm. Totals from Thursday are currently pending. The blood drive will conclude Friday from 9 am to 3 pm.
As it pertains to the need for blood throughout the nation, Faler tells KVOE “right now we’re about where we need to be.” However, Faler says the need for blood never fully goes away.
At last word, there were still 30 appointments available for Friday’s blood drive. Battle of the Badges is an annual competition that sees Emporia Fire, Emporia Police and the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office taking part to assist the American Red Cross. The winning department will receive bragging rights and a traveling trophy for the next year.
All donors will receive a free t-shirt and a $5 Amazon gift card while supplies last, and can cast their vote for the department they feel should win the competition. The blood drive is taking place at Twelfth Avenue Baptist Church located at 2023 West 12th Avenue.
Walk-ins are welcome but appointments are preferred. Appointments are still available by visiting Redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.
