CAPE TOWN – As New Year’s resolutions fade for many, the Western Cape Blood Service is urging residents to make one commitment that could save lives: regular blood donation.
The WCBS launched its 2026 Commitment Campaign this month, encouraging both seasoned and first-time donors to transform blood donation from a one-off gesture into a year-long habit under the theme “Share the Gift of Life.”
The provincial blood service needs at least 72,000 active donors this year to meet the constant demand from hospitals treating surgery patients, cancer sufferers, mothers in childbirth, and trauma victims. With each unit of blood potentially saving up to three lives, the target could help more than 216,000 people across the Western Cape.
“Starting the year with a commitment to donate blood is more than a resolution – it’s a promise to save lives, not just once, but all year long,” said Marike Carli, Public Relations Manager at WCBS. “A single donation takes just 30 minutes, but regular donors help ensure that blood is always available when patients need it most.”
The service faces a particular challenge in attracting first-time donors, with a goal of recruiting 15,500 new donors in 2026 to build a resilient blood supply for the future.
To encourage regular donation, WCBS is offering donors who commit to giving blood at least four times this year a limited-edition coffee plunger and mug as a token of appreciation.
Last year’s figures show both the scale of the need and the community’s response. In 2025, WCBS collected 174,989 units of blood and welcomed 14,179 new donors.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every donor who helped save lives in 2025,” Carli added. “In 2026, we’re asking even more people to join us – to move from a once-off donation to an ongoing, lifesaving habit.”
Anyone aged 16 to 75 who weighs at least 50kg, is in good general health, and leads a safe sexual lifestyle may be eligible to donate. The entire donation process takes approximately 30 minutes.
Those interested in donating can find their nearest clinic at www.wcbs.org.za or contact WCBS via WhatsApp at 060 549 7244.
ALSO READ: Western Cape blood bank faces critical shortage as stocks drop to two-day supply
