‘Battle of Badges’ blood drive allows donors to choose between fire and police

JACKSON, Mo. (KBSI)- Blood donations are vital during the holiday season and important for the people who depend on them.

The American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive at the Jackson Civic Center where donors get to choose between the Jackson Fire Department and the Jackson Police Department, for a special prize.

The Battle of the Badges Blood Drive is for donors to choose between fire or police, and whoever has the most donors’ votes, wins a traveling trophy.

Shelby Bentley works for the American Red Cross and says the event is to bring more awareness of the need for more blood.

She adds, “There’s always a strong need, right now we’re in a critical need for blood, and you can be a hero too, just like your local police officers just like your fire fighters, and if they can come out and donate so can you.”

Bryton Jones is a firefighter for Jackson Fire, and he says this is the time of year many motor vehicle accidents happen, “There can be extra crashes that happen and involve people who can get into a big incident that could definitely impact your lives and they may need a blood transfusion they may need something extra to help save their life.”

An urgent appeal for blood is happening nationwide. 

During the holiday season, blood donations are extremely vital, and mean more than just the gift of giving.

To be eligible to donate, you must be 18 or older, or 16 with a parent signature, and pass the health screening.