The American Red Cross declared a national blood shortage this week — and said that climate disasters and low donor turnout are part of the problem.

Last year, the Cabarrus Battle of the Badges collected 98 units of blood for the Red Cross. This year, the combatants hope to break the state Battle of the Badges record of 217.

The American Red Cross and town of Marana are hosting a blood drive from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Friday at the Marana Municipal Complex, 11555 W. Civic Center Drive.