First responders in Douglas County are joining forces once again to support a life-saving cause. The second annual Boots, Badges & Bandages Community Challenge Blood Drive is set for Wednesday, June 11, at Cross Point Church in Ava. Organized in partnership with Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO), the event will run from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
The drive brings together police, fire, and EMS personnel in a spirited competition to see which department can inspire the most community participation. A traveling trophy will be awarded to the winning team, but the true prize is a strengthened local blood supply during a season when donations typically decline.
All eligible donors will receive a limited-edition event T-shirt and two free tickets to a Springfield Cardinals game, while supplies last. Appointments are recommended and can be made at www.cbco.org/donate-blood.
Donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh 110 pounds or more, and be in good health. They must also not have donated blood in the past 56 days.
As the exclusive provider of blood products to more than 40 healthcare facilities in the region, CBCO encourages residents to participate and help ensure a steady, reliable blood supply for local patients.
