Community blood drive aims to bolster Durban’s blood supply
The Lions Club of Durban North, in partnership with the SA National Blood Service (SANBS), is inviting residents to donate blood at a community drive on Saturday 29 August at Pick n Pay Hypermarket by the Sea in Durban North. The event runs from 09:00 to 14:00 and organisers are asking the public to come forward to help sustain the province’s blood reserves.
Lions president Grant Hobbs said the club wanted to bring the community together for “a simple but incredibly meaningful act of giving.” He emphasised the irreplaceable nature of donated blood and encouraged participation.
“As Lions, serving our community and helping people in times of need is at the heart of what we do. Blood is something we can’t manufacture, and every donation has the potential to save lives,” Hobbs said.
SANBS donor relations practitioner Dennis Ngongoma reinforced the appeal, noting the practical impact of each donation. According to Ngongoma, one unit of blood can save up to three lives, and the SANBS is urging both active and lapsed donors to attend to help maintain the province’s blood supply.
What to expect at the drive
Organisers say the event will be family-friendly and include several free health services. Apart from the blood collection, visitors can access free blood sugar testing and free blood pressure testing. The Lions Club has arranged entertainment and community engagement to encourage a strong turnout throughout the day.
- MC for the day: Andreas Mathios
- Special appearance: Melvin the Mascot
- Sponsors: Marshall Security, Durban North Pharmacy and Pick n Pay Hypermarket Durban North
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Blood Donation Drive and Awareness Day |
| Date | Saturday, 29 August |
| Time | 09:00–14:00 |
| Location | Pick n Pay Hypermarket by the Sea, Durban North |
| Services | Blood donation, free blood sugar and blood pressure testing, entertainment |
The Lions Club is calling for a strong turnout across the day to maximise donor numbers. Local sponsors have helped make the initiative possible; organisers thanked Marshall Security, Durban North Pharmacy and Pick n Pay Hypermarket Durban North for their support.
Why local donations matter
Durban and the wider KwaZulu‑Natal region have regular needs for blood across hospitals, emergency services and scheduled surgeries. Organised community drives such as this one provide a reliable way for residents to contribute directly to local healthcare resilience. SANBS representatives have frequently appealed to the public to keep replenishing stocks, particularly by welcoming back donors who have not donated recently.
For many residents, donating is a straightforward act with outsized benefits. Organisers stress that donors should be in good health, meet SANBS eligibility criteria, and bring the necessary identification on the day. Anyone unsure about eligibility can contact SANBS or the Lions Club ahead of the event.
This drive also aims to raise awareness about preventative health through the complimentary screenings and to make the donation experience welcoming, with light-hearted elements such as a mascot and MC to put people at ease. The Lions Club said the focus remains simple and urgent: collect blood to help save lives.
Residents who can attend are encouraged to do so between 09:00 and 14:00 on 29 August. Organisers hope the combination of community spirit, convenient location and on-site health services will draw donors across age groups and backgrounds, strengthening Durban’s capacity to respond to medical need.
