STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
A friendly rivalry between local first responders is returning to Glasgow this week, with a serious mission behind the fun. The American Red Cross is teaming up with local agencies for a Battle of the Badges blood drive this Friday, June 19th, aiming to boost the community blood supply as summer begins. The blood drive will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Family Life Center of Glasgow First United Methodist Church.
Captain Justin Kirkpatrick with the Glasgow Police Department said on WCLU that agencies have taken part in the Battle of the Badges event for several years and typically see a strong response from donors. When donors arrive to give blood, they can select whether they are supporting the police department or the fire department, adding a bit of local competition to the day. Kirkpatrick said the contest is mainly for bragging rights this year, with no formal championship on the line beyond who “wears the crown.”
American Red Cross representative Meg Campos, who has family roots in Glasgow, said on WCLU that while the sirens may get people’s attention, it is the blood donations that save lives. She said summer is a critical time of year for blood donations, because many people are busy or on vacation, but the need for blood at area hospitals remains constant. Campos said supplies can start to fall short during the warmer months, making events like the Battle of the Badges especially important to keep hospitals well stocked when patients need blood the most.
Organizers emphasized that the central goal of the event is for community members to give the gift of life by donating blood. They are encouraging residents to make time on Friday to support the drive, pick their favorite badge, and help strengthen the local blood supply heading into the heart of summer.
– American Red Cross hosting Battle of the Badges blood drive in Glasgow
– Event set for Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
– Drive will be at the Family Life Center of Glasgow First United Methodist Church
– Donors can choose to support police or fire when they register
– Red Cross officials say summer blood supplies can fall short
– Organizers urging residents to give the gift of life
