A blood drive of a unique nature is coming to Folsom next week with an event that brings local first responders and some of their furry friends together in a friendly competition that benefits those in need through blood donations. Hosted locally by Vitalant, its known as the Battle of Badges and Folsom Police and Fire Departments are urging residents to get involved.
Taking place on Wednesday, July 31 at the Folsom Police Department from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m at the Folsom Police Department located at 46 Natoma Street in Folsom. Those who sign up and donate blood on this particular day not only provide a vital need to area blood banks that continue to run lean on supply, they also get a special Battle of the Badges t-shirt for their contribution and get to have a little competitive fun during it all too between Folsom Police and Folsom Fire.
It’s far from election day, but during this event donors get to cast their vote for their favorite out of two different four legged heroes in the community. Blitz, the Folsom Fire Department Therapy Dog that came through the local non-profit Hearts4HeroesUSA and Liberty, the Folsom Police Department’s therapy dog that joined the force earlier this year thanks to the help of the Folsom Police Foundation, are going head to head in an effort to increase community participation.
Those that donate on Wednesday, get to cast their votes for their favorite four legged hero. While the winning department gets bragging rights, the true winner will be local blood banks and those in need of blood donations across the area.
“Our fire and law enforcement agencies understand the need for blood, they help people in motor vehicle and recreational accidents, gun violence situations, those in cancer treatment, and those with childbirth complications, burn injuries, and more,” shared Vicki Wolfe, Communications Manager for Vitalant.
Vitalant has reported an emergency shortage of Type O blood, the first blood emergency doctors reach for in life-and-death situations. Wolfe noted that all blood types are needed because blood is perishable and needs to be constantly replenished.
Those interested in participating and donating blood can pre-register for the event and select their time online HERE online or call 877-258-4825. When sigining up use the blood drive code 005600023.
