Tuesday in Ocean City, you will have the chance to give the gift of life while supporting local police and fire fighters. And the truth is, the American Red Cross desperately needs your help right now.

Blood supplies in South Jersey and across the country remain at dangerously low levels following a severe decline in blood donations leading up to and following the July 4th holiday.

You are invited to head for Ocean City Tuesday to roll up your sleeves and join their local police and fire heroes in helping to ensure hospitals and patients have the lifesaving blood they need this summer.

Ocean City firefighters and law enforcement personnel are teaming up with the American Red Cross for their first-ever Battle of the Badges blood drive to see who can recruit the most eligible donors in the community to give blood.

Individuals can join the Battle of the Badges blood drive by donating blood on Tuesday, July 11 between 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at St. John Lutheran Church, 1001 Central Ave., Ocean City.

Appointments are encouraged but are not required. To make an appointment to donate, call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org, sponsor code OC Battle of the Badges.

Battle of the Badges is a friendly competition that helps the Red Cross meet patient and hospital demand for blood. This is especially critical during the summer, which is a particularly challenging time for blood collection.

“Our first responders know, firsthand, how important it is to have blood readily available for emergencies,” said Alana Mauger, external communications manager, Red Cross Penn Jersey Blood Services Region. “We’re thrilled to have the Ocean City fire and police departments step up to the challenge by organizing this drive and educating the community about the importance of blood donation.”

All presenting donors will be entered into a drawing to win one of two $50 gift cards. Presenting donors can also enjoy refreshments courtesy of Ocean City International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) Local No. 4032 and Police Benevolent Association (PBA) Local No. 61.

To make an appointment for Battle of the Badges, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Donate Blood for Ocean City Police and Fire “Battle of the Badges”
St. John Lutheran Church, 1001 Central Ave., Ocean City, New Jersey
Tuesday, July 11, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org
Sponsor code: OC Battle of the Badges

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