12/19/12 Firefighters, police officers and first responders are often close to the need for blood, responding to emergency situations throughout the year. This is why the American Red Cross will hold the annual Marshall County Battle of the Badges on Thursday, Dec. 18th, from 1:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office located at 1400 North Pioneer Drive in Plymouth.
This friendly competition helps the Red Cross maintain a stable blood supply at critical times during the year. The goal of each department is to bring in the most blood donations and votes. Blood donors will have the chance to vote for their favorite group during the Battle and the winning department will receive a certificate and bragging rights for the year.
“Donating blood is a great way for everyone in the community to show support for local heroes. The need for blood is constant and you never know when you or someone you love may need it,” said Sharyn Whitman, CEO of the Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross.
Every day the Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross needs 500 pints of blood in order to help meet the needs of hospital patients across Indiana and Ohio. “We hope donors from the Marshall County community will roll up their sleeves to give blood and show their support of these local heroes,” said Whitman.
How to Donate Blood
To schedule an appointment to donate please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org for more information. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in Indiana), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate.
