Who’s got what it takes to win this year’s blood drive bragging rights - the dedicated police officers or the fearless firefighters? It’s time for the gloves to come off (and the sleeves to roll up) as Fargo and Moorhead launch a two-day, cross-city “Battle of the Badges” blood donation challenge, to support patients following the seasonal summer downturn in blood donations.
“We’re thrilled to expand this annual lifesaving rivalry across the river,” said Kimberly Vosseteig, Executive Director of the American Red Cross serving Eastern North Dakota and Northwestern Minnesota. “Summer is a critical time for blood donations, and this is a fun, meaningful way to give back and support local heroes.”
The Fargo Police Department has secured the title in recent years. And this year, the rivalry is bigger than ever. In addition to the classic police vs. fire showdown, the cities of Fargo and Moorhead will go head-to-head for the First Annual Battle of the Cities trophy, awarded to the community with the most blood donations.
“We’re proud to see the metro area’s finest stepping up once again to protect our community and save lives,” said Fargo Mayor Dr. Tim Mahoney. “This friendly rivalry brings out the best in all of us, and I know The City of Fargo will show up strong to take home the win!”
"We're excited to see our community come together for such a vital cause," said Moorhead Mayor Shelly Carlson. "The Battle of the Badges is more than just a competition; it's a testament to the dedication and bravery of our police officers and firefighters. With the addition of the Battle of the Cities trophy, I have no doubt that Moorhead will rise to the challenge and make us proud while helping support those in need."
Blood Drive Details
Wednesday, August 27
12 – 6 p.m.
Moorhead Public Library
118 5th St S, Moorhead, MN 56560
Thursday, August 28
12 – 6 p.m.
American Red Cross – Fargo Office
2602 12th St N, Fargo, ND 58102
Appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, through the Red Cross Blood Donor App or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Donations made at each location will count toward that city's total in the Battle of the Cities. Donors will also be invited to vote for their favorite department — police or fire — to help decide the winner of the Battle of the Badges.
Everyone who turns up to donate will also receive their choice of a coupon for Buffalo Wild Wings or Sandy’s Donuts. As an extra thank-you, donors will take home an exclusive “Battle of the Badges” Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.
The Red Cross also will provide free A1C screening — a test commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes — for all donors who make a successful blood donation and have not received an A1C test result with their donation in the past 12 months.
Can’t make it in August? There are several opportunities to donate before the end of the year at these upcoming Fargo and Moorhead drives:
Fargo
Moorhead
Appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, through the Red Cross Blood Donor App or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
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