Donate Blood June 30 For Radnor's 'Battle Of The Badges'

RADNOR TOWNSHIP, PA — In an effort to boost blood donations, Radnor Township is hosting a special "Battle of the Badges" blood drive later this month.

From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 30, community members are invited to donate blood to the Red Cross to "vote" for the Radnor Township Police or Fire departments in the battle.

The departments will compete to see who can recruit the most eligible community blood donors during the blood drive.

Donations will be taken at the Radnor Township Activity Center, 125 S. Wayne Ave.

All presenting donors will get a free T-shirt, while supplies last.

Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive.

To schedule an appointment, visit the Red Cross website here and enter sponsor code RADNOR or call 1-800-REDCROSS.

"The 'Battle of the Badge' blood drive is an opportunity for our first responders to give back to the community they serve every day, and an opportunity for the public to give back as well," Radnor Township Superintendent of Police Christopher B. Flanagan said. "Regardless of which ‘badge’ comes out on top, it’s a win for the Radnor community and a chance for us to all come together to have some fun for a great cause."

When donors arrive at the blood drive, they will have the opportunity to cast a vote for Radnor Township Police or Fire department.

The winning agency gets bragging rights and a plaque, but the real winners are the patients and their families who benefit from the lifesaving blood that is collected.

"Radnor Fire Company is proud to partner with the Radnor Police Department and support the goal of the American Red Cross," said Radnor Fire Chief Joseph Maguire. "Regardless of who brings in the most donors, everybody wins."

Battle of the Badges is a friendly competition that helps the Red Cross meet patient and hospital demand for blood.

As the nation transitions to a new, hopeful phase of this devastating pandemic and people begin to return to some of their favorite activities, the Red Cross is concerned about the impact this could have on blood donor turnout and the blood supply this summer.

The need for lifesaving blood transfusions never takes a break.

It’s critical to have blood ready to go when every second counts.

As a special treat this year, local favorite Mad Anthony Wayne Cafe will provide coffee and breakfast items throughout the morning and Kona Ice will provide shaved ice during the afternoon.

The Radnor Township Police Department K-9 Unit will show off their skill during a 12:30 p.m. demonstration, and Radnor Fire Company vehicles will be on display throughout the day.