Press Releases

Edina Participates in “Battle of the Badges” blood drive 

Edina, Minn., June 14, 2011– The Edina Police and Fire departments are joining forces to save lives with blood donations.

The Memorial Blood Center is challenging Fire and Police departments from the greater Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area to participate in the “Battle of the Badges,” a competitive, yet friendly blood drive. Officers, firefighters, friends, family and the greater community are encouraged to donate blood in honor of their favorite police or fire departments. The department with the greatest percent participation wins.

"We're excited about this fun and worthwhile competition. Donated blood saved our Officer Mike Blood's life, so we know firsthand how important it is to give," said Edina Police Chief Jeff Long.

Statistics show one out of every three people will need blood in their lifetime. According to the Memorial Blood Center, someone needs blood every two seconds. There is always a need for donated blood because supply is not increasing as fast as the need.

“This is a great program and it’s very important to us to give blood,” said Edina Fire Chief Marty Scheerer. “We are always trying to be participants to help out a good cause.”

As part of the Battle of the Badges, the City will sponsor a blood drive Wednesday, June 22, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Council Chambers at Edina City Hall, 4801 W. 50th St. To donate blood in honor of the Edina Police and Fire departments, register using sponsor code 0111 by calling 1-888-GIVE-BLD, or online at www.mbc.org.