The public is invited to join Wichita’s first responders for the 28th annual American Red Cross Wichita and Sedgwick County “Battle of the Badges” Blood Drive.

It will be held from Dec. 13th to Jan. 1st at the Wichita Blood Donation Center (707 N. Main St).

During the annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive, Sedgwick County EMS, Sedgwick County Fire Department, Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, Sedgwick County Emergency Management, Wichita Fire Department and Wichita Police Department compete to see who can recruit the most blood donors.

Everyone who donate can cast a vote to determine who will win this year’s bragging rights. All those who come to donate during the Battle of the Badges Blood Drive will receive a commemorative T-shirt, while supplies last.

Through the first 27 years of the event, over 30,000 blood and platelet donations have been collected.

The Battle of the Badges comes as the Red Cross is urging donors of all blood types to be the lifeline for patients by donating blood or platelets this holiday season. Blood donations usually decline from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day as people get busy with holiday activities and travel. Donors are needed to help ensure a stable blood supply for patients throughout the winter months.

There is no waiting period to donate blood or platelets after receiving a flu shot. Schedule an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Learn more about flu safety and prevention at redcross.org/flusafety.