Cottage Grove, MN — First responders from across South Washington County will lace up their sneakers and hit the hardwood in the ultimate community showdown: Battle of the Badges 2025, a charity basketball game benefitting Basic Needs Inc. of South Washington County and SoWashCo CARES. The event will take place on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at Park High School in Cottage Grove. This family-friendly fundraiser will feature local police and fire department representatives teaming up with Park High School’s boys and girls varsity basketball players for an evening of fun, teamwork, and community spirit. Participating agencies include the Cottage Grove Police and Fire Departments, Saint Paul Park Police and Fire, Newport Fire, and Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Woodbury PD and Fire, all depending on their availability for the day. We hope to have an uneventful day for first responders so they can all attend. Mayor Keith Franke of Saint Paul Park will join as a referee, with other city leaders invited to take part as special guests. Rep. Wayne Johnson will toss the coin to start the game. Proceeds from the event will support Basic Needs' Food Market and Thrift Store voucher program, as well as SoWashCo CARES' efforts to provide direct support to local students and families in need. Tickets and event details are available at www.basicneedsmn.org. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food, hygiene items, and gently used clothing to donate. “Battle of the Badges is more than a basketball game,” said Opey Peñaloga, Executive Director of Basic Needs. “It’s a celebration of partnership, service, and the power of coming together to uplift our students, families and neighbors in need.” About Basic Needs Inc. of South Washington County Basic Needs uplifts individuals facing hardship through barrier-free access to fresh food, affordable clothing, and social service connections. About SoWashCo CARES SoWashCo CARES Education Foundation is the community-led nonprofit that supports the South Washington County (SoWashCo) School District community. The ultimate goal of SoWashCo CARES is to build a community that cares. We do this by meeting the needs of our students, providing access to opportunities, showing appreciation to our school staff, and hosting community-building events for people to connect, give help and get help.