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KINGSPORT – Marsh Regional Blood Center is teaming up with first responders across the region in the “Battle of the Badges” blood donor competition, which will honor hometown heroes.

Police officers, firefighters, emergency medical responders and civilians can roll up their sleeves and compete to see who can secure the most lifesaving donations in the community.

“Battle of the Badges is an inspiring display of community spirit and friendly rivalry, all for a lifesaving cause,” said Steffanie Sukel, director of Marsh Regional. “The work of Marsh Regional providing critical blood and blood products would not be possible without support from our donors and supportive organizations such as first responder groups.”

This competition is set to unfold across several locations, each featuring a lineup of first responder teams eager to champion this cause. Below is the complete list of blood drive locations and information:

Sullivan County Sheriff’s Department
140 Blountville Bypass, Blountville
Wednesday, May 7
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Greeneville First Baptist Church
211 N. Main St.
Wednesday, May 28
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Kingsport Farmers Market
308 Clinchfield St.
Wednesday, June 4
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Abingdon Police Department
425 W. Main St.
Friday, June 6
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Church Hill Police Department
302 E. Main Blvd.
Friday, June 20
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hawkins County Sheriff’s Office
117 Justice Center Drive, Rogersville
Friday, June 20
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Bristol State Line
Cumberland Square Park
200 Lee St., Bristol, Virginia
Tuesday, June 24
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Johnson County Rescue Squad
203 Vandilla St., Mountain City
Friday, June 27
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Walk-in donations are welcome, and all donors will receive an exclusive T-shirt.

“We encourage everyone to come out and support your favorite first responders for an exceptionally noble cause,” Sukel said.

To give blood, donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health. People with a cold, sore throat, fever, flu or fever blisters, or who are taking antibiotics, may not donate. Donors should eat a balanced meal before giving blood.