Sarasota, FL - August 15, 2025 - SunCoast Blood Centers invites the community to the final Boots vs Badges Blood Drive of the season on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Evie’s Tavern & Grill, 4725 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

This event concludes a spirited and life-saving blood donation competition that began on July 12th and runs through August 23rd, pitting our local Fire Departments (“Boots”) against Police Departments (“Badges”). This annual summer campaign boosts blood donations during one of the most challenging times of the year - and the donations collected during this competition are projected to save up to 1,000 local lives. With both teams neck-and-neck, this year’s battle is coming down to the wire, and every donation on August 23 could determine the ultimate champion.

Attendees can enjoy a family-friendly experience featuring emergency vehicles, engaging vendors such as Safe Children Coalition and Carousels Ice Cream, and a visit from the Marty the Marauder Marauder from the Bradenton Marauders - all while making a life-saving impact.

Donor perks include:

• Up to $60 in e-gift cards
• A limited-edition long sleeve Boots vs Badges shirt (while supplies last)
• Free eligibility and wellness checks
• A chance to win raffle prizes from local businesses
• Entry to win a $25 Cat Depot gift certificate

Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. To schedule a donation, call 866-972-5663 or visit suncoastblood.org.

Join SunCoast Blood Centers and the community for an exciting, life-saving event that makes a difference locally — and have fun doing it!

About SunCoast Blood Centers

Serving Southwest Florida since 1949, SunCoast Blood Centers is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a reliable supply of the highest quality blood products and services to local healthcare facilities.

Media Contact

Brian Dryfhout

Director of Marketing & Communications

[email protected]