Members of the Bundaberg Indian Malayalee Association have rolled up their sleeves as part of a local donation drive coinciding with the week of World Blood Donation Day.
More than 30 members of the association took part in giving blood at Bundaberg Blood Donor Centre on Thursday, with appointments booked in from 11am to 5pm.
Member Neenu Amal said the group was more than happy to donate after hearing about the record cancellations experienced in the region and Australia-wide.
The Bundaberg Blood Donor Centre saw 35% of donors cancelling their appointments last month.
“Currently in Australia there are Covid vaccinations happening so many of the regular blood donors are experiencing difficulty in donating due to the seven day waiting period,” Neenu said.
“The Red Cross is experiencing a shortage now and we thought it is our responsibility to support our community and people.”
Neenu said the association's members wanted to coincide their blood donations in the same week as World Blood Donation Day to help boost numbers.
“Administration and staff were very supportive and provided us with information to all the first timers to help them register,” she said.
Australian Red Cross Lifeblood's Rosie Barton said 43.9% of all donations at Bundaberg Donor Centre were given by members of Lifeblood Teams.
“We are incredibly grateful to have the support of community groups like Bundaberg Indian Malayee Association as well as local businesses and educational facilities who have joined together to save lives through blood and plasma donation,” she said.
“We are always looking for new Lifeblood Teams to come forward and join this unique giving program.
“It can be a wonderful team building opportunity, after all, some things are better together – like saving lives!”
To donate blood, book here.
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