Altus Battle of the Badges invites all area residents to get in the giving spirit by donating life-saving blood. Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) will conduct a blood drive Thursday, Dec. 20, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., at City of Altus Council Chambers on 509 S. Main. Participating agencies include: Jackson County EMS, Jackson County Sheriff Department, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Altus Fire Department and Altus Police Department.

Blood donors will be registered for a chance to win a VIP pass to meet Tim Tebow at the February 17 inaugural Nighthawks football game*. In addition, Oklahoma Blood Institute will reward each donor with a ball cap, health screenings and Donor Rewards points, redeemable for items in OBI’s online store. Any donor who wishes to support the Global Blood Fund can forgo the ball cap. In turn, Oklahoma Blood Institute will make a monetary contribution of similar value to the Global Blood Fund. It’s a chance to ‘doubly give’ by saving a life locally, and making safe blood available in the world’s poorest countries.

“We’re blessed to be surrounded by giving people who respond when they know of a need,” said John Armitage, M.D., president and CEO of Oklahoma Blood Institute. “The gift of blood is a life-saving one. It’s difficult to think of anything more important that we personally can do.”

Because there is no substitute for blood, the supply must constantly be renewed.

Although all blood types are needed, those with O-negative type blood are especially encouraged to donate. According to the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB), those with O-negative blood type make up only nine percent of the national population. However, O-negative blood can be used by in any emergency situation when a patient’s blood type has not yet been identified.

Anyone, 16 years or older**, can typically donate blood. To find out more or make an appointment to donate, call 877-340-8777 or visit www.obi.org.

*Blood donation is voluntary, and no contribution, donation, purchase or payment is necessary to enter prize drawing.

**16 year olds must weigh at least 125 and provide signed parental permission, 17 year olds must weigh at least 125 pounds, 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds.