Several area Law Enforcement Agencies are teaming up Friday for a Lakes Region Blood Drive for the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks.

The complete release from the CBCO is below:

Heroes from across Taney County are coming together for a cause that saves lives. Local first responders are teaming up with Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO) for the inaugural Taney County Boots, Badges and Bandages Community Challenge Blood Drive, taking place Friday, June 27.

The Boots, Badges and Bandages Community Challenge Blood Drive is a fun event which provides an opportunity for the community to come together and support local patients, while at the same time honoring area first responders for the magnificent work they do every day. It is also a friendly competition between the fire, police and EMS departments with a traveling trophy awarded to the department with the strongest showing.

Community Blood Center of the Ozarks, the only provider of blood, platelets, and plasma for patients at over 40 healthcare facilities, including Cox Branson, needs blood to help ensure a strong summer blood supply is available to help avoid typical summer blood shortages. O Positive and O Negative blood types are currently in high demand. O blood type donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment. 

The blood drive will be held Friday, June 27, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Central Taney Fire Protection District Training Center, located at 21060 US Hwy 160 in Kissee Mills.

Summer is often a challenging time for blood donations and the local blood supply. “We appreciate the support of our local Fire, Police, and first responders, who understand the importance of a robust local blood supply and host the Boots, Badges and Bandages Community Challenge Blood Drive,” said Michelle Teter, CBCO Media Relations Representative. “Your blood donation could save the life of a family member, friend, colleague, or neighbor. Please consider helping us make a difference in the Taney County community.”

All donors will receive a special limited edition, Boots, Badges, and Bandages T-shirt and TWO FREE TICKETS to an upcoming Springfield Cardinals game, while supplies last. 

To help avoid wait times, appointments are strongly encouraged. Donors can schedule an appointment at www.cbco.org/bootsandbadges/ or by calling 417-227-5006.

Photo identification is required. Please eat well and drink plenty of fluids prior to the blood drive.