The local branch of the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) will host a Jail-A-Friend blood drive on November 22 at the Secunda Donor Centre.

Prominent community members, including Ridge Times editor Arisja Misselhorn, will be ‘arrested’ and can only be released if they find 10 people to donate blood on the day.

SANBS aims to collect more than 100 units of blood. The most units collected during a similar event in Bethal in 2024 was 135.

The event is designed not only to increase blood collection but also to raise awareness about the challenges SANBS faces in recruiting donors. Currently, less than 1% of South Africa’s population donates blood.

Dot Prinsloo, donor relations practitioner at the Secunda SANBS branch, said blood is a valuable resource that can save lives. “Every person who donates blood can save up to three lives,” she said.

Visit the Secunda Donor Centre on November 22 to donate blood and help free the Ridge Times editor or other ‘prisoners’ by giving blood.