Folsom Police and Fire unite with team Blitz vs. team Liberty for Community Wide Life-Saving Challenge

It’s officially game day for Folsom’s bravest, and they’re calling on the community to step up, roll up a sleeve, and help save lives. The annual “Battle of the Badges” Blood Drive is taking place today, Wednesday June 4 at the Folsom Community Center from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.—and all eligible donors are encouraged to join in the friendly but impactful rivalry between the city’s police and fire departments.

Advertisement

The event, hosted in partnership with Vitalant, is more than just a blood drive—it’s a spirited competition between Team Liberty of the Folsom Police Department and Team Blitz of the Folsom Fire Department. Each donation not only helps patients in need but also counts as a vote for your favorite team’s K-9 representative: Liberty or Blitz. The department with the most votes will earn year-long bragging rights.

Now in its third year, the event has become a local tradition and a fun way to encourage vital summer blood donations.

Advertisement

The “Battle of the Badges” concept is part of a broader national effort to boost blood donations during the summer, when supplies tend to dwindle due to vacations and school breaks. Folsom’s police and fire teams have embraced the initiative with enthusiasm and a little competitive spirit to inspire community involvement.

Donors today will receive a free Battle of the Badges T-shirt, a $10 gift card through Vitalant’s donor rewards program, and automatic entry into a drawing for one of two $10,000 gift cards. Beyond the giveaways, participants will also leave knowing their donation could save a life—or several.

Advertisement

Appointments are encouraged to ensure a smooth process, but walk-ins are welcome as space allows. To make an appointment, visit donors.vitalant.org and use blood drive code 100560023, or call 877-258-4825.

Advertisement

All donors must be in good health, at least 16 years old (with parental consent for minors), and weigh a minimum of 110 pounds. Donors should also bring photo ID and be well-hydrated before their appointment.

Whether you side with Team Blitz or Team Liberty, the goal is the same—saving lives and supporting the community. Head to the Folsom Community Center before 2:30 p.m. today and take part in this meaningful, impactful event.

Advertisement

Copyright © 2025, Folsom Times, a digital product of All Town Media LLC. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the publisher.