Find a Blood Drive
Find a Blood Drive
BRANSON, Mo. (Sept. 2, 2020) — Local fire and law enforcement personnel are once again teaming-up with the American Red Cross at the second annual Branson Battle of the Badges blood drive to see who can recruit the most eligible donors in their community to donate blood.
Individuals can join the Branson Battle of the Badges blood drive by donating Friday, Sept. 25 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 203 Vaughn Drive, in Branson. Donors’ blood donations will help decide who wins bragging rights, the Branson Fire Department or the Branson Police Department. All who present to donate will receive a free Battle of the Badges T-shirt, while supplies last. Last year the Branson Police edged out the Branson Fire Department 35-33.
"Blood donations are always necessary,” said Jeff Matthews, Branson Police Chief. “However, during this COVID-19 health crisis, it’s even more important to support blood banks. Select a team, Police or Fire, and help us make a difference."
“The need for blood is real,” said Ted Martin, Branson Fire Chief. “I'm excited to partner with the Red Cross and the Police Department for this event. I encourage all our community members to save lives by donating blood."
Battle of the Badges is a friendly competition to encourage community members to join their local first responders and perform their own heroic act, donating blood. All presenting donors during the blood drive will get to cast a vote to help decide the winner.
“Firefighters and law enforcement personnel know firsthand how important it is to have blood readily available for emergencies,” said Joe Zydlo, external communications manager, Greater Ozarks & Arkansas Blood Services Region. “By hosting this blood drive once again this year, they are helping ensure that blood is on the shelves before it is needed.”
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, schedule online, call 1-800-RED CROSS or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. 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.