Aug 24, 2022

Salina's Battle of the Badges blood drive begins Monday

Posted Aug 24, 2022 1:02 PM

American Red Cross

It's almost time for Battle of the Badges, and you can help!

The American Red Cross will host the annual Battle of the Badges as a three-day blood drive beginning on Monday at the Sunrise Presbyterian Church,  825 E. Beloit, in Salina. Join your community’s first responders and be a lifesaver! 

“Courageous, selfless, kind - all words that describe Salina’s first responders, the men and women who step into fires, crime scenes, and crises of all sorts to serve and protect,’’ said Teri Novotny of donor recruitment. “You can add helping save lives to the work of Salina’s first responders as they once again partner with the American Red Cross for the annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive.”  

During this year’s Battle of the Badges Blood Drive,  Salina Police Department and Salina Fire/EMS Department will compete to see who can recruit the most blood donors. Everyone who comes to give blood can cast a vote to determine who wins this year’s bragging rights. 

Blood donors will receive an exclusive Battle of the Badges t-Shirt, while supplies last. 

Though the need for blood doesn’t let up, donations often decline at this time of year as donors become busy with outdoor activities, schools dismiss for summer, and vacations are planned. 

Blood donations to the American Red Cross help ensure new moms, premature babies, cancer patients, and accident victims have access to safe, lifesaving blood. The American Red Cross provides about 40 percent of the nation’s blood supply. 

Eligible individuals are encouraged to schedule a blood or platelet donation appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor app, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 800- RED-CROSS (800-733-2767).