Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
What: American Red Cross of Southern Nevada’s Battle of the Badges Blood Drive
When: Wednesday, April 9, 2025, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: Palace Station, 2411 W. Sahara Ave.
Participants: Las Vegas Metropolitan Police vs. Las Vegas Fire & Rescue and Clark County Fire
LAS VEGAS (April 9, 2025) — Today, Clark County first responders are rallying together for a friendly competition at the Fourth Annual American Red Cross of Southern Nevada’s Las Vegas Battle of the Badges Blood Drive. Running 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Palace Station, firefighters and police officers will work side by side, urging the community to donate blood and help ensure a stable blood supply for those in need.
Rachael Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter, emphasized the importance of this event, stating, “Donating blood is a selfless act that can save lives. Our local first responders are stepping up beyond their call of duty to inspire others to join in this lifesaving mission. We invite the community to make a difference by donating blood today.”
Building Community Support Through Friendly Rivalry
The Battle of the Badges fosters teamwork between Las Vegas Metropolitan Police officers and firefighters from Las Vegas Fire & Rescue and Clark County Fire Department. Donors can show their support by voting for their favorite first responder team, with the winner crowned based on the most votes received by the end of the drive.
“Our firefighters and police officers know firsthand the critical role blood donations play in saving lives during emergencies,” Flanigan said. “We’re asking the public to join this effort and help us maintain a steady blood supply for those who need it most.”
Partnerships That Make a Lifesaving Difference
This lifesaving event is made possible by partnerships with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Las Vegas Fire & Rescue, Clark County Fire Department, FOX5 Las Vegas, Suburban Propane, Palace Station, Findlay Subaru of Las Vegas, Semper Fi Heating & Cooling, Republic Services, Walker Furniture and Rimini Street.
Addressing Challenges in the Blood Supply
Recent severe winter storms across the U.S. have caused over 1,000 blood drive cancellations, resulting in more than 30,000 uncollected donations. With the nation’s blood supply facing significant challenges, the Red Cross of Southern Nevada is calling on residents to donate blood in the coming weeks to help meet patient needs and stabilize the blood supply.
Donors can schedule appointments through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcross.org/Give-Blood or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). If appointments are unavailable on the day of the event, donors are encouraged to schedule for a later date.
Special Incentives for Donors
All donors who give blood in April will be automatically entered to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. Additionally, those who donate between April 1-13, 2025, will receive a $15 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. Donors giving between April 14-30, 2025, will receive an exclusive Red Cross T-shirt while supplies last. For details on these offers, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Hope.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
