Every year, 14 June serves as a powerful reminder of the life-saving impact of one simple, selfless act—donating blood. This vital gesture can mean the difference between life and death for people facing serious medical conditions across the globe.
As we observe World Blood Donor Day 2025, we honour the crucial role of blood donors in healthcare systems around the world. In this blog, we’ll explore why donating blood matters, who is eligible to donate in South Africa, and share five meaningful ways you can support this life-saving cause right here at home.
Join Acorn Stairlifts in celebrating World Blood Donor Day 2025 and discover how your actions—no matter how small—can help save lives and support this remarkable cause.
When Is World Blood Donor Day?
World Blood Donor Day is held on 14 June every year.
In 2025, it falls on a Saturday—the perfect opportunity to make a real difference with a small act of generosity.
What Is the Theme for World Blood Donor Day 2025?
The theme for 2025 is:
“Give blood, give hope: together we save lives.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the objectives for this year’s campaign are to:
- Raise awareness of the life-saving role of blood and plasma donations
- Encourage regular donations from both new and returning donors
- Promote values of compassion, community, and solidarity through giving
- Call on governments to invest in sustainable national blood programmes
How Does Donating Blood Save Lives?
Donating blood is a simple but powerful act that saves lives every single day.
Each donation is divided into red blood cells, plasma, and platelets—all of which are essential in different treatments. One donation can help multiple people. Those who most commonly need transfusions include:
- Accident victims in critical condition
- Surgical patients during or after operations
- Cancer patients affected by chemotherapy or radiation
- Mothers and newborns in distress after childbirth
- People with blood disorders like sickle cell disease or thalassaemia
- Burn victims in need of plasma
- Patients with haemophilia or clotting issues
Regular donations ensure there is enough supply to respond to both emergencies and ongoing treatments. Without consistent donors, shortages can quickly arise.
Who Can Donate Blood in South Africa?
In South Africa, most healthy adults can donate blood, provided they meet the required criteria. You may be eligible if you:
- Are between 16 and 75 years old
- Weigh at least 50kg
- Are in good general health on the day of donation
- Have not donated in the past 56 days (for whole blood)
- Haven’t had recent tattoos, piercings, or infections
- Are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- Do not have a medical condition or take medication that disqualifies you
- Haven’t engaged in activities that increase the risk of bloodborne infections
To confirm your eligibility or learn more, visit www.sanbs.org.za or contact your local South African National Blood Service (SANBS) donation centre.
5 Ways to Help Save Lives This World Blood Donor Day
1. Donate Blood
The most direct and impactful way to help is to donate blood yourself.
Visit a SANBS clinic or mobile blood drive in your area. The whole process—including screening and donation—takes about 30 minutes to an hour, and your donation can save up to three lives.
2. Organise a Blood Drive
Bring your community together for a cause that truly matters.
Work with SANBS to organise a group donation at your workplace, school, or place of worship. Promote it on social media, make it fun and inviting, and celebrate the people who step forward to give.
3. Volunteer at a Donation Centre
If you're unable to donate, volunteering is a valuable way to contribute.
Help with check-ins, distribute refreshments, or provide emotional support. Volunteers ensure donors feel comfortable and appreciated—which helps keep them coming back.
4. Inspire Others to Donate
Encourage your friends, colleagues, and family members to become donors.
Start a donation challenge, share survivor stories, or post your own experience online. Your influence could be the reason someone chooses to save a life.
5. Raise Awareness
Use your voice to spread the message.
Post facts, stats, and testimonials about the importance of blood donation. Collaborate with local schools or community groups to host awareness events and engage the public.
Every conversation helps strengthen the cause.
Join the Movement and Make a Difference
World Blood Donor Day is more than a date—It’s a movement.
A call for compassion, generosity, and community spirit across South Africa and the world.
Whether you donate, organise, volunteer, or advocate, your efforts bring hope and healing to those in need.
Be the reason someone has a second chance at life. Celebrate World Blood Donor Day 2025 with Acorn Stairlifts.
