It could get pretty bloody...and that's exactly what everyone's hoping for.

The Rockford Police Department is set to square off against the Rockford Fire Department in the "Battle of the Badges" challenge beginning today and running through this Friday.

What's the challenge?

It's a joint effort to heighten awareness about the need for blood donations and to assist the Rock River Valley Blood Center in maintaining an adequate blood supply during the summer months, especially after a holiday weekend.

So, pick your team.

The public is encouraged to take part in the challenge. When donors go in to give blood, they will pick which department they want their donation to support. Registered donors will receive a special edition t-shirt, while supplies last, donated by the police and fire unions.

Donors can donate blood at the two blood center locations in Rockford: 419 N. Sixth St. or 3605 N. Perryville Rd.

On Friday, July 12, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., donations will be collected at Blood Buses and a winner of the challenge will be announced.

 

Here's what happened last year:

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