Social responsibility is key to most organisations that continually look at how they can make a difference and give something back to their community. However, choosing a project can sometimes be a daunting task, as there are several choices and non-profit organisations that all deserve its share of assistance from the business community.
However, the Western Province Blood Transfusion Service (WPBTS) is unique in the sense that their work of saving lives depend on their fellow citizens’ goodwill. Businesses are key partners in the collection of safe sufficient blood that saves the lives of thousands of South Africans every year and all an organisation needs to do is allow us an opportunity to host a blood drive at their premises.
WPBTS is calling on organisations that are not already a part of our corporate community who host blood drives regularly, to please join. As an organisation you are able to impact our cause of saving lives and also offer the convenience for your staff to become regular blood donors without having to leave their workplace.
“At companies where regular blood donor clinics are held there is a feeling of togetherness amongst the employees who donate blood, as they see this as a team activity,” says Irene van Schalkwyk, PR and Promotions manager at the Western Province Blood Transfusion Service.
The biggest requirement for hosting such a clinic is that we would need a minimum of 20 donations. Another requirement is a suitable venue where the Service can set up their temporary clinic or a venue where a bus or caravan can be parked. To be a blood donor you must be between the ages of 16 and 65, weigh more than 50 kg, live a safe sexual lifestyle and be in good health.
“All we are requesting from you is time and your commitment to our cause,” says van Schalkwyk. Only 30 minutes of someone’s time, four times a year, can make a difference in someone’s life. Donors can donate every 56 days, so a clinic will typically be held once a quarter.
If you can assist by hosting a blood donor clinic at your organisation, or if you have any queries, please phone us on 021 507 6300 or send an e-mail to info@wpbts.org.za
We know you have a heart!