Witfield community helps SANBS exceed its target
Go to sanbs.org.za to find out how you can host a blood drive.
On July 11, a blood drive in Witfield exceeded expectations as locals came out in support of the South African National Blood Service (SANBS).
The CPF participated in organising the drive, which exceeded SANBS’s donation goal, according to the organisers.
Volunteers sold wors and prego rolls outside the donation location to raise money for CPF equipment, such as basic equipment and visibility gear for volunteers, and increase awareness.
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This strategy was well-received by locals and contributed to the festive, community-focused mood.
Annatjie Fraser, the CPF Sector 3 secretary, hailed the day as a success.
She praised both funders and volunteers, saying, “It was a success and I thank the community for supporting us.”
Donors expressed their motivations.
“It’s important to me to check my status; donating blood helps other people,” said Brian Ngomane.
“Donating blood makes me feel better, and as a person, you’ll never know when you’ll need it,” said Thabile Thabethe, who added that giving blood improves her mood.
Michael Olivier, a long-time donor, added a personal statement on SANBS’s impact: “I have been donating since I was in Grade 10 in 2019. The SANBS has personally saved my life, and it makes me feel good and positive to go on with my day.”
The organisers highlighted that by combining a life-saving effort with a food sale, neighbours were encouraged to visit, donate, and converse, fostering stronger community bonds while promoting health services.
The CPF and SANBS stated that they intend to expand on the success, with organisers hoping that future drives will be even simpler to publicise and fully staffed due to the increased exposure and community energy.
Residents were urged to contact their local CPF or the SANBS for information if they were interested in participating in future initiatives or making regular donations.
Go to sanbs.org.za to find out how you can host a blood drive.
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