The Montgomery County Commissioners have re-issued a challenge to the Sheriff’s Office and Norristown’s Police and Fire departments to see who can recruit the most eligible blood donors in the community during a rematch of their American Red Cross Battle of the Badges blood drive competition on Tuesday, June 11.

Last year, the Norristown Police and Fire departments defeated the Sherriff’s office by 12 donations. However, the real winners were the approximately 246 patients who benefited from the 82 units of blood collected during the drive.

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“It’s truly second nature and gratifying for first responders to help others. Since there is a constant need for blood donations, this friendly competition aims to help build awareness and increase supplies more quickly,” said Dr. Valerie A. Arkoosh, chairwoman of the Montgomery County Commissioners.

Hosted by the employees of Montgomery County, the Sheriff’s Office will once again compete against the Norristown Police and Fire departments. Community members are invited to cast their vote by coming out to donate on June 11 between 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. at the Montgomery County Human Services Center, 1430 DeKalb St., Norristown. Free parking will be available.

All presenting donors will receive a free T-shirt, while supplies last. Appointments are strongly encouraged. To schedule an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter sponsor code Norristown BOB or call 1-800-REDCROSS.

“This is a battle where nobody loses and those in need get to win,” said Norristown Fire Chief Thomas M. O’Donnell.

Battle of the Badges is a friendly competition that helps the Red Cross meet patient and hospital demand for blood, which is especially critical during the summer – a challenging time for blood collection.

“You don’t have to wear a badge to be a lifesaver. In an hour or less, you can donate and help save a life,” said Montgomery County Sheriff Sean P. Kilkenny.

The Red Cross currently has a critical shortage of type O blood. Right now, type O blood is being distributed to hospitals faster than donations are coming in. Type O donors ─ and donors of all types ─ are urged to give now to help ensure blood is on the shelves for patients when every second matters.

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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 must 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.

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