The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) has made an urgent request for O-negative, O-positive, and B-positive blood donors to step forward, as the region’s blood stocks have reached alarming lows, reports Cape {town} Etc.
With supplies dwindling to just two days for these essential blood types, the service is urging all eligible donors to consider making a contribution as soon as possible.
The ideal goal for WCBS is to maintain a five-day supply of all blood groups; however, the current situation indicates a pressing need for immediate action. ‘We rely on the generosity of all our donors to keep blood stocks at healthy levels,’ explains Marike Carli, Public Relations Manager at WCBS.
‘While O-negative, O-positive, and B-positive blood is needed most urgently right now, every donation from every blood group helps ensure that we can continue providing patients with the care they need,’
The shortage comes at a critical time, as patients relying on transfusions or surgical procedures depend heavily on a reliable blood supply. To encourage participation, WCBS has launched a ‘Bring-a-Buddy’ campaign, which runs until Saturday, 13 December 2025.
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Under this initiative, existing donors who bring a new donor to the donation site will each receive a beach bat set as recognition of their contribution to the cause.
It’s important to note that existing donors do not need to donate on the same day they bring a new donor, but the new donor must successfully complete the donation process to qualify for the incentive.
This creates an opportunity for seasoned donors to share their experience and inspire others to join the life-saving mission.
Eligibility requirements for blood donation include being between the ages of 16 and 75, weighing at least 50kg, and maintaining good general health, along with a safe sexual lifestyle.
The process of donating blood is relatively quick, taking only around 30 minutes, yet each unit collected plays a significant role in maintaining the province’s essential blood supply.
Community support has always been a cornerstone of WCBS’s mission, and Carli expresses confidence in the public’s willingness to assist during this crucial time. ‘We know the Western Cape community always steps up when it’s needed most,’ she states.
‘Now is that time. Please make donating blood your priority this week and Bring-a-Buddy to make double the difference,’
Donors wishing to participate can locate their nearest blood donation clinic by visiting www.wcbs.org.za or contacting WCBS via WhatsApp at 060 549 7244.
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Western Cape Blood Service starts charity drive to support communities
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