News

IT’S A FOUR-PEAT!
THE FRESNO POLICE DEPARTMENT & THE
CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FISH & GAME
WIN THE
6^TH ANNUAL NORTH VALLEY
BATTLE OF THE BADGES BLOOD DRIVE...
AGAIN!

 In total, 1,907 donors turned out to give blood, 492 more than last year’s drive.  The Fresno Police Department brought in the highest number of donors overall while the California Department of Fish & Game had the highest percentage (of blood donors versus staff size) and staff at Valley State Prison, in Chowchilla, gave the most donations from a correctional facility.

FRESNO, CA - The Central California Blood Center would like to thank all donors who took part, as well as the administration and departments of the various law enforcement agencies and other badge carrying emergency personnel.  Special thanks also goes to KGPE, Channel 47 for sponsoring this five-day life-saving blood drive as the Blood Center begins to prepare for the Memorial Day Weekend and expected increased usage.

The men and women who put their lives on the line everyday to ensure our safety annually face off in a friendly competition to save lives by giving of themselves, literally, and donating blood.  It was all part of the 6^th Annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive.  As in past years, Firefighters, Police, Forestry, Sheriff, Corrections, Fish & Game, Highway Patrol and other badge-carrying emergency personnel competed for bragging rights, and a perpetual trophy.  And, once again, the winners were the Fresno Police Department, who won the “Most Donors Overall” award, and the California Department of Fish and Game, who received the “Highest Percentage of Donors” award.   The winner of the “Most Donations from a Correctional Facility” award goes to the staff of Valley State Prison for Women.  Competition was fierce between Coalinga State Hospital, Pleasant Valley State Prison, Central California Women’s Facility and Valley State Prison for Women. 

Blood donation takes less than one hour to complete. Donors must be in good general health, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old. Senior citizens are encouraged to donate, as there is no upper age limit. Donors should eat a good meal and drink plenty of water within 4 hours prior to their donation. Donors can give blood every eight weeks. Photo ID and Social Security Number are required at donor registration.