Schenectady, NY -- The American Red Cross partnered with the Schenectady Police and Fire Departments for a friendly competition inside Key Hall at Proctors.

Each department donated as much blood as they could to "claim bragging rights" for an important cause.

"This is a great opportunity to highlight the important work of the American Red Cross and to support their mission amidst a national blood supply shortage.," saidPolice Chief Eric Clifford. "This drive has been in the works for some time because of what a ready supply of blood means to police officers and firefighters, and the importance of it now cannot be overstated given the two recent hurricanes that brought catastrophe to the south."

"This blood drive, supported by both departments, is another example of just how dedicated our first responders are to the Schenectady community and beyond," said Fire Chief Don Mareno.

Captain Apa of the Schenectady Fire Department tells CBS 6 that the losing department will donate to a charity of the winning department's choosing.