By Toni Erasmus

This year, we were thrilled to host our annual Red Saturday event once again, in partnership with SANBS. Our goal was to unite the nation and collectively collect 5000 units of blood from generous voluntary donors like you – ensuring our blood stocks remain strong during this busy time of year. As we approach the end of the year and the festive season draws near, the pressure on our blood supply typically increases. With that being said – the malls are packed with holiday shoppers during Black Friday, and with many of us on the hunt for the best deals, holiday gifts, and stocking fillers, what better way to get the ultimate special – where one donation can save up to three lives!

On Saturday, 30 November 2024, we came together for Red Saturday, a day dedicated to encouraging the public to donate blood. Our goal for the day was to collect 1200 units of blood within the Western Cape and welcome 300 new donors into our blood donor community.

We were absolutely overwhelmed by the incredible turnout! A total of 1264 people visited one of our 12 blood donation clinics. Thanks to your generosity, we successfully collected 1063 units of blood and welcomed 253 new donors. Here’s a breakdown of how each clinic performed:

  • Long Beach Mall – Noordhoek: 71 units
  • Blue Route Mall – Tokai: 100 units
  • Kenilworth Centre – Kenilworth: 68 units
  • N1 City Mall – Goodwood: 87 units
  • Tyger Valley Shopping Centre – Bellville: 105 units
  • CapeGate Shopping Centre – Brackenfell: 105 units
  • Liberty Promenade – Mitchell’s Plain: 74 units
  • Somerset Mall – Somerset West: 83 units
  • Whale Coast Mall – Hermanus: 108 units
  • Langeberg Mall – Mossel Bay: 101 units
  • Table Bay Mall – Milnerton: 112 units
  • Vangate Mall – Athlone: 90 units

Thank you to all our loyal donors who showed their support and to the new donors who joined us this year. We know that this life-saving work is not possible without you.