TYLER, Texas — The American Red Cross invites East Texans to roll up their sleeves and donate at the upcoming Battle of the Badges blood drive on Wednesday, Sept. 23, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Whitehouse City Center, 109 E. Main St.

Community members can help save lives while supporting a friendly competition between the City of Whitehouse Fire Department and Whitehouse Police Department. Every blood donation has the potential to help patients facing emergencies, surgeries, cancer treatment and chronic illnesses, making donors an essential part of the nation’s blood supply.

As hospitals continue to rely on volunteer blood donors every day, the Red Cross encourages eligible individuals to make an appointment and ensure blood products are available when and where they are needed most. Donors of all blood types are needed.

Donors can schedule an appointment by visiting RedCrossBlood.org and entering sponsor code: whitehouse, call 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

As a thank you, those who come to give Sept. 21-Oct. 18, 2026, will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/Fall for details.

Every donation can help strengthen the blood supply and provide hope to those counting on blood products for care.

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.