ERMELO – The local police were out for blood during the annual SANBS Jail & Bail blood drive on November 22.

This annual blood drive is one of the most anticipated community events of the year.

It combines the spirit of fun with the serious cause of blood donation, bringing local residents together to help save lives.

The event challenges local ‘detainees’ to raise blood donations in exchange for their freedom, while simultaneously collecting vital blood supplies for the festive season.

Early in the morning, a group of community members were ‘arrested’, and their bail was set at 10 units of blood each.

“The success of this event could not have been possible without the support of local businesses, schools and organisations that encouraged blood donations,” said Juliette Basson and Silvija Breytenbach, organisers of the event.

From business owners to local media, each ‘detainee’ rallied their troops to meet their blood donation goals.

Thanks to the efforts of Kare Bearz and the local SANBS, a total of 243 units of blood were collected, breaking the 25-year record of 234.

The overall winner of the day with 37 pints was Ligbron’s principal, Gerhard Brand.

Breytenbach and Basson thanked every sponsor and donor who contributed to the day’s success.

While the Jail & Bail blood drive is a fun event, it also serves as an important reminder of the critical need for blood donations.

The SANBS relies on such events to maintain a steady supply of blood and ensure that it’s available when needed.

Each unit of blood donated can save up to three lives.