All Around Pennsauken

Pennsauken first responders will compete 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. 28, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Marco’s at Pennsauken Country Club, 3800 Haddonfield Rd.

Presenting donors will have the opportunity to cast a vote for Pennsauken Police, Fire Department, or the EMS Division of Pennsauken Fire, with the winning agency earning plaque and bragging rights. Last year, the Pennsauken Fire Department came in first place. However, the real winners are the patients who benefited from the 95 pints of blood collected at the drive.

In alignment with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention public guidance, donation appointments are necessary to observe social distancing, and donors must wear a face covering. Eligible individuals
can make an appointment to donate using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Use the sponsor code Battle of The Badges for the blood drive on Jan. 28.

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.

The Red Cross and the NFL are partnering this January, during National Blood Donor Month, to urge individuals – especially those who have recovered from COVID-19 – to give blood and to help tackle the
national convalescent plasma shortage. Those who come to give blood, platelets or plasma in January 2021 will automatically be entered for a chance to win a getaway to the 2022 Super Bowl LVI in Los Angeles.** As an extra thank-you from the Red Cross, those who come to give now through Jan. 20, will also be automatically entered to win a Big Game at Home package, which includes a 65-inch television and $500 gift card toward food and fun so their household can enjoy an awesome viewing experience safely at home.*** Terms apply; visit RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl for more information.

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.

Blood Donation Safety Precautions

Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings
for donors and staff – have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive and are required to wear a face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention public guidance.

About The American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent 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.

*Offer not valid on mobile app orders. For Donuts: Excludes Fancies and Specialty Donuts. For Coffee: Almondmilk, Oatmilk, and Espresso Shots may be an additional charge. Limit one per customer per visit. Shop must retain coupon. May not be combined with other offers or promotions. No substitutions. Consumer must pay applicable tax. Void if copied, transferred or sold and where prohibited or restricted by law. Cash Value 1/20 of 1 cent. Good at participating Dunkin’ locations in Kent and New Castle Counties, DE, Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Mercer and Salem Counties, NJ; Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, and Philadelphia Counties, PA. Expires 2/10/21

** Terms and conditions apply. Additional information and details are available at https://www.redcrossblood.org/local-homepage/events/super_bowl.html

*** Terms and conditions apply. Additional information and details are available at https://www.redcrossblood.org/local-homepage/events/super_bowl.html