A group of passionate volunteers from Shinchonji Church of Jesus hosted an outreach in Randburg, focusing on blood donation and mental health awareness.
The event brought together residents, volunteers, and local leaders in a shared mission to give back to the community.

Read more: Shincheonji Volunteers hosts health day and promotes blood donation

Millicent Komani, a clinical technician and media liaison for the group, explained the purpose behind the day. “We are donating blood and handing out pamphlets for mental health awareness. We also wanted to offer basic health check-ups, but unfortunately, the health workers couldn’t join us this time. We’re hopeful they’ll be there next time.”
“We usually do blood drives and health days. But we also do outreach work, like giving to those in need. Today, we chose to give blood because it saves lives.”

Komani also donated blood, sharing that her job made her realise how important the act is. “Once I started donating, I saw the value. Even if we don’t always see the outcome, one donation can save three lives.”

Ward 99 councillor Hendrik Burdenstine attended the event and praised the initiative. “It’s not just about blood,” he said. “It’s about mental health, which is something we often ignore. There’s still stigma around it, but people should feel safe to seek help.”

He added that blood donation remains one of the easiest ways for ordinary people to help those in critical need. “If we don’t donate, where does the blood come from?” he asked. “I’m a regular donor myself, and I encourage everyone to go to SANBS and donate as often as they can.”

Finance professional Neil Robinson was one of the donors on the day. “I get notifications when it’s time to donate,” he said. “The atmosphere is always friendly, and it makes me feel good knowing I’m helping. I honestly feel healthier when I donate regularly.”

Robinson stressed how vital blood donation is in keeping hospitals running. “They don’t store blood for long. It gets used almost as quickly as it comes in. My blood type might not be rare, but for A positives out there, I’ve got them covered.”

The Shinchonji Volunteers hope to expand the campaign by offering full health check-ups at future events. Through small acts of kindness, the group continues to spread the spirit of Madiba and show the value of service to others.

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