Pandemic showcases drop of 31,000 regular blood donors

National Blood Donor Week began on Sunday. Canadian Blood Services says throughout the pandemic the number of people who donate blood regularly has dropped by 31,000. The organization is in need of 100,000 new donors for blood, plasma and platelets. Brenna Scott, the Business Development Manager with the group, says they are trying to recruit people this summer to donate plasma and there are 330 appointments to fill this week alone.

“We are reaching out to donors in a variety of ways. Via phone and email. This summer we’re actually excited that what we’re able to do community recruitment events again. We haven’t been able to do that during the pandemic. But, this year we are going to be in the community more so that all of our new donors can see us and ask questions. You know, a lot of people don’t even realize that the plasma centre is here or how high the need is. We will be at a number of local events this summer, such as the Dragon Boat Festival and Canada Day to help provide awareness about the plasma centre and bring in some new donors that way too.”

World Blood Donor Day also falls on June 14 to honour those who selflessly donate to those who are most in need.