Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
What: Spanish Fork Battle of the Badges Blood Drive
When: Monday, Dec. 11, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: Veteran's Memorial Building, 386 N. Main St.
Who: Spanish Fork Police Department vs. Spanish Fork Fire Department
SPANISH FORK, Utah (Dec. 7, 2023) — Spanish Fork first responders are gearing up for some friendly competition at the town’s third Annual American Red Cross Battle of the Badges blood drive, Monday, Dec. 11, at the Veteran’s Memorial Building from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
“There is typically a slowdown in donation appointments during the holiday season,” said Benjamin Donner, Executive Director of the American Red Cross, Central and Southern Utah Chapter. “This important event will help replenish the blood supply, and by participating, our local first responders continue to demonstration their commitment to our community.”
Battle of the Badges is beneficial for the community
This unique blood drive fosters a friendly competition between the Spanish Fork Police and Fire departments to encourage blood donations. Donors cast their votes for their preferred first responder team, and the team with the most votes by the end of the drive is declared the winner. Last year, the Fire Department/EMS edged out the police for the win. Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment before arriving at the blood drive by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS and using the sponsor code, Spanish Fork.
“As first responders, our police officers and firefighters know the critical need for blood donations,” said Spanish Fork Mayor Mike Mendenhall. “Without a readily available blood supply, many emergency victims wouldn’t survive. We urge the public to join us in saving lives by donating blood this Monday.”
Importance of blood donations during the holiday season
Several factors can disrupt the Red Cross’s ability to collect enough blood to meet the needs of patients nationwide during the holiday season, including holiday travel, seasonal illnesses like the flu and severe winter weather. “With all the excitement and obligations surrounding the holidays, blood donation may get overlooked,” Donner said. “This time of year, many regular donors will take a break from their normal routine and may not have a chance to donate, but patients’ need for blood remains constant.”
Donating blood this holiday season can be doubly rewarding
The Red Cross has teamed up with Prime Video in honor of their film “Candy Cane Lane”, featuring an all-star cast, including Eddie Murphy and Tracee Ellis Ross, and directed by Reginald Hudlin. All who come to give blood in December will automatically be entered to win one of 12 prize packages. Each package includes a $1,000 Amazon.com Gift Card and a 65-inch Omni QLED Series Amazon Fire TV. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Amazon.
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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
