The American Red Cross is proud to host the 31st Annual Allen County Battle of the Badges Blood Drive, inviting the community to join local Fire/EMS and law enforcement in a friendly competition to save lives. From December 15 to 20, donors can give blood at one of two locations: the Fort Wayne American Red Cross Donation Center or the Lutheran Hospital Blood Donation Center.

This holiday season, give something that means something. A blood donation can bring comfort and hope to patients and their families. The winter months pose challenges for maintaining a stable blood supply, as many regular donors face packed schedules filled with seasonal activities and travel. The Battle of the Badges helps ensure blood is available when it’s needed most.

As the longest-running Red Cross first responder blood donation competition in the country, the Allen County Battle of the Badges gives donors the opportunity to vote for their favorite team — Fire/EMS or law enforcement — while making a lifesaving contribution. All presenting donors will receive an exclusive American Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last.

How to Donate at the Allen County Battle of the Badges Blood Drive

Make an appointment at RedCrossBlood.org and use sponsor code “fwbattle” to donate blood at either of the participating locations. You can also call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or download the Red Cross Blood Donor App. All presenting donors will receive an exclusive American Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last.

For Interview requests, please contact Janie Bohlmann (317) 771-9600 or Isis Chaverri (317) 914-5744.

Donation Locations and Hours

Fort Wayne Donation Center
212 E. California Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46825 (across from the Memorial Coliseum).

7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Monday, Dec.15                   

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec.16
Wednesday, Dec. 17
Thursday, Dec.18       
Friday, Dec.19                                  

8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Saturday, Dec.20                 

Lutheran Hospital Donation Center
7900 W. Jefferson Blvd., Suite 107 in Fort Wayne, IN 46804 (in the South Lobby of Lutheran Hospital)

12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Monday, Dec.15 
Tuesday, Dec.16       

CLOSED 
Wednesday, Dec.17  

10:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, Dec.18                        

8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Friday, Dec.19          

6:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Saturday, Dec.20                  

The Allen County Battle of the Badges is supported by Adams Radio Group and WPTA 21Alive.

How to donate blood
Simply download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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.

About the American Red Cross Indiana Region:
The American Red Cross of Indiana Region serves 6.9 million people in 104 counties in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Ohio through its five chapters: Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, Southwest, and Greater Indianapolis (Regional Headquarters). 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 us at Redcross.org/Indiana or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X @indianaredcross.