Pennsauken first responders will complete to see who can recruit the most eligible blood donors in the community during an American Red Cross Battle of the Badges blood drive rematch on Thursday, Jan. 23, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Marco’s at Pennsauken Country Club, 3800 Haddonfield Rd., Pennsauken.

Presenting donors will have the opportunity to cast a vote for Pennsauken police, fire or EMS departments, with the winning agency earning plaque and bragging rights. Last year, the Pennsauken Fire Department narrowly defeated the Police and EMS by only two votes. However, the real winners are the patients who benefited from the 127 pints of blood collected at the drive.

Appointments are encouraged; walk-ins will be accommodated as time and space allow. To schedule an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter sponsor code Battle of the Badges or call 1-800-REDCROSS.

Presenting donors will receive a free Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. In addition, throughout January, presenting donors will receive a voucher for a free* medium Hot Coffee and a free classic donut, redeemable at participating Dunkin’ restaurants in the Greater Philadelphia Region. Vouchers are available while supplies last and are not redeemable for cash. Battle of the Badges is a friendly competition between first responders that helps the Red Cross meet patient and hospital demand for blood, which is especially challenging during the winter season. “This blood drive will help replenish the blood supply following the holidays,” said Rosie Taravella, CEO, Red Cross New Jersey Region. “The Red Cross critically needs donors of all blood types − especially type O − to give now and help ensure patients continue to receive the treatments they need this winter.”

How To Donate Blood

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass^® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.