Central SA
‘The need for blood doesn’t take a holiday’ – SANBS calls for donors─── ZENANDE MPAME 12:11 Fri, 19 Dec 2025
Many South Africans will take leave from work to travel and spend time with family this festive season, but the need for blood doesn’t take a holiday.
"Christmas holidays are usually one of the busiest times of the year when many people are travelling," says the SA National Blood Service Free State and Northern Cape head of donor relations, Jana Wallace. "The holiday is mostly associated with trauma and accidents, and a lot of blood is needed."
'Keep the spirit of giving alive - donate blood, save lives, share hope'
The service urges the public to step forward and make blood donation part of their festive giving. Potential donors between the ages of 16 and 75, who weigh 50kg or more, and are in good general health and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, may be eligible to donate blood.
“The need for blood doesn’t take a holiday, so we encourage everyone to keep the spirit of giving alive; donate blood, save lives, and share hope,” said Wallace.
“As we head into the festive season, a time of joy, togetherness, and gratitude, the SANBS would like to say thank you. Because of your generosity, the nation’s lifeblood has kept flowing, giving thousands of patients a chance to celebrate holidays.”
The blood service is calling on both regular donors and first-time donors to roll up their sleeves this festive season and help secure blood stocks for the weeks ahead. It will open most of its blood donation centres in Central South Africa until the last day of December to accommodate donors wishing to donate over the holiday season.
'A single blood donation can save up to three lives'
During this time, schools, universities, and businesses close down, affecting the blood stocks as most of the blood is collected from these institutions.
The SANBS explains in this diagram what happens to blood donations.
To keep South Africa’s healthcare system strong and equipped to handle any challenge, SANBS hopes to greatly increase blood donations and promote continued community involvement through the combined efforts of the summer campaign.
“A single blood donation can save up to three lives,” said Wallace. “Making it one of the most meaningful gifts South Africans can offer this festive season, with no wrapping, no price tag, and a life-changing impact.”
To keep up with the ongoing demand for blood in the healthcare system, SANBS aims to collect a minimum of 3,500 units daily, enough to save as many as 9,000 lives.
• Have a news tip to share? Phone or WhatsApp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.
