Emporia’s biggest blood drive of the year takes place this week.
Battle of the Badges will go from Wednesday to Friday, once again at Twelfth Avenue Baptist Church. As usual, the blood drive helps to increase blood supplies, which are now typically in urgent or critical need. It also raises awareness of the need for blood and it gives the participating agencies — Emporia Police, Emporia Fire, Lyon County Sheriff’s Office and Lyon County Emergency Communications — a way to both highlight their partnerships in critical situations and provide an opportunity for some good-natured competition.
Hours are 12-6 pm Wednesday and Thursday, followed by 8 am to 2 pm Friday. Appointments are preferred through redcrossblood.org, the Red Cross Blood Donor app using the sponsor code Emporia, or by calling 800-RED-CROSS. Walk-ins are accepted.
The public service entity with the highest popular vote total will receive a traveling trophy shortly after Friday’s donation period ends.
