Potential donors urged to participate as Battle of Badges blood drive continues

Day 2 of Emporia’s Battle of the Badges blood drive is Thursday.

Blood supply is urgently low, both regionwide and nationwide, and Red Cross Central Plains spokesperson Susan Faler is encouraging residents to set appointments or just walk in if they want to help meet the need.

Monday’s effort collected 62 usable units of blood, short of the goal of 86, and there were lots of open appointment spots leading into the drive Wednesday.

Battle of the Badges is at Twelfth Avenue Baptist Church. Donation hours Thursday are 12-6 pm. Donation hours Friday are 8 am to 2 pm. The winner of the most popular agency traveling trophy will be announced shortly after 2 pm Friday.

This year’s effort includes Emporia Fire and Police, Lyon County deputies and Lyon County dispatchers. To set a blood donation appointment, call 800-RED-CROSS or go online to redcrossblood.org.