Danbury First Responders Partner On 'Battle Of The Badges' Blood Drive

**News Release Submitted by City of Danbury**

April 6, 2023

On Wednesday, April 26, the City of Danbury First Responders are teaming up with the American Red Cross for a friendly competition to see who can save the most lives by donating blood in the Battle of the Badges Blood Drive. Danbury Police, Fire, Emergency Management, and Health and Human Services Departments will go head to head to see who can recruit the most donors.

"I'm proud of our Police, Fire, Emergency Management, and Health and Human Services Departments for volunteering their time and effort to support the American Red Cross. I hope every Danburian who is able will consider giving lifesaving blood at this year's Battle of the Badges Blood Drive,” said Mayor Dean Esposito.

Last year, the Danbury Battle of the Badges blood drive collected 102 donations of lifesaving blood, which could help save three lives per donation. The City of Danbury Health and Human Services Department together with Emergency Management are looking to defend their title this year. The Health/Emergency Management team donated the most blood at the 2022 event.

"We are so excited to partner with the city of Danbury once again for our Battle of the Badges Blood Drive," said Cheryl Engels, American Red Cross Connecticut Chapter Board Member. "This is an impactful way to connect with our community, our heroic first responders, and respond to the call to help save lives."

Donors of all blood types, especially type O blood donors and those giving platelets, are needed now to keep the blood supply strong enough to support critical patient care this spring. Blood products have a limited shelf life, so making and keeping donation appointments this month is vital to keeping shelves fully stocked with blood and platelets all season long.

Community preparedness resources will also be available at the event, including, “Stop the Bleed,” “Homes Made Safer,” and hands only CPR. Blood drives like Battle of the Badges help to ensure the gift of blood is on shelves for anyone who is in need.

The blood drive will be held at the Danbury Fair Mall on the lower level across from Eddie Bauer from 10AM-6:30PM on Wednesday, April, 26. Want to join local first responders to help save lives? Sign up to donate online at redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code: COD. Or call to make an appointment: 1-800-Red Cross (1-800-733-2767).