Battle of the Badges blood drive returns this week

Residents can donate blood this week to support emergency service providers in Douglas County and the American Red Cross — plus have a little competitive fun in the process.

The 2023 Battle of the Badges blood drive is taking place at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 2104 Bob Billings Parkway. Residents can schedule an appointment to donate blood between 11 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Thursday and between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Friday.

When donating, residents place a vote for their favorite first responder service, including Lawrence Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical. The winning group gets bragging rights and a trophy. Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical won in 2022.

All blood donors will receive a “Battle of the Badges” T-shirt and a $10 e-gift card, and they will be entered in a drawing to win one of several prizes.

Call 1-800-733-2767 or visit www.RedCrossBlood.org to schedule an appointment. When registering online, use the sponsor code: LawrenceKS or the ZIP code 66044 to connect with the Lawrence competition.

The Red Cross encourages donors to eat something and to drink plenty of water before donating blood.

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