By Tessa Belcher
Northeast News
June 21, 2011

Kansas City, Missouri Police Department and Fire Department are competing in a battle that will result in blood shed, literally. The 16th Annual Battle for Blood began yesterday and metro firefighters and EMS are facing off against law enforcement to see who can donate the most blood.

All Community Blood Center locations are participating from June 20 through June 25 and blood shed isn’t just limited to firefighters and police officers. Anyone can donate this week on their own or on behalf of the police side of battle.

During the summer, supplies are normally lower than usual. Battle for Blood helps the Kansas City area reach an essential need for donations and contribute to the 580 units of blood each day given to area medical centers.

In 2009, the Battle for Blood trophy was given to the police. Last year, the police handed the trophy over to firefighters and EMS. This year you can join the Battle for Blood and make a difference.

To fight in the battle and donate, sign up http://www.savealifenow.org.

You can check the daily progress of the Battle for Blood at http://www.battleforblood.com.