'Battle of the Badges' Blood Drive June 3

SIDNEY — Sidney Fire and Police are on a mission to help save lives by collecting blood for hospital patients in need during the Battle of the Badges blood drive.

Battle of the Badges is a friendly competition to see who can recruit the most eligible blood donors to join them in this lifesaving effort. The community is encouraged give blood from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 3, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

Free t-shirts are available for all presenting donors, while supplies last!

The need for blood is constant. Joining first responders to donate at this special event can help ensure blood is on the shelves before it is needed.

The American Red Cross is testing all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies, providing donors insight into whether they have been exposed to this coronavirus. COVID-19 antibody test results will be available within 7-10 days in the Red Cross Blood Donor App or donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org.

To make an appointment or to learn more, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Completion of a RapidPass online health history questionnaire found at redcrossblood.org/rapidpass is encouraged to help speed up the donation process. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 16 with parental consent, 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.