There’s a major blood drive happening in the country over the upcoming weekend. There is a call, especially, for new blood donors to help save lives. The big blood donation movement is being led by the South African National Blood Service (SANBS), in collaboration with the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS).
A Call to Action for New Blood Donors
Several clinics where you can donate blood will be held this Saturday, 12 April, from 9 am to 4 pm. The goal of the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is to collect 800 units of blood and to recruit 300 new donors. The blood banks say there is a growing demand for blood in the country, especially ahead of Easter and the winter months. There are 7 malls to donate in the Western Cape, including CapeGate, Liberty Promenade, N1 City, Somerset West and Kenilworth Centre.
READ MORE: Dodged winter’s woes? Here’s why the South African National Blood Service needs you more than ever
As the demand for blood rises, both organisations are prioritising the recruitment of new donors to maintain a steady blood supply for the busy Easter period and the approaching winter months.
Help build blood reserves
Blood donations tend to decrease during the winter, making it essential to build reserves now and prevent potential shortages during this critical time. Why Should You Donate? Blood is needed every day for trauma patients, individuals living with cancer, those with blood disorders, and those undergoing surgery. New donors are essential to meeting this ongoing demand, especially as we approach the winter season when blood collection numbers typically fall.
The need for blood is constant
The SANBS goal for the day is to collect 4000 units of blood and engage 500 new donors, and the WCBS goal for the day is to collect 800 units and engage 300 new donors to bolster reserves before this critical time. We also encourage regular donors to bring a new donor along.
The need for blood is constant, and by introducing someone to the life-saving act of donating, you can make a real difference. Together, we can ensure that South Africa’s hospitals are fully stocked as we prepare for the colder months ahead.
Join the Movement to Save Lives:
- Date: Saturday, 12 April 2025
- Time: 09:00 – 16:00
- WCBS Goal: Collect 800 units of blood and recruit 300 new donors
- SANBS Goal: Collect 4,000 units of blood and recruit 500 new donors
Eligibility Requirements:
- Be in good health
- Be between the ages of 16 and 75
- Weigh at least 50kg
- Lead a healthy lifestyle
READ MORE: BLOOD DONOR EDUCATION CAMPAIGNS ARE PAYING OFF
Your action today can change someone’s tomorrow.
