SERHA Calls For More Blood Donors Ahead Of World Blood Donor Day

KINGSTON, Jamaica – The South East Regional Health Authority is calling on more Jamaicans to make voluntary blood donation a regular habit as World Blood Donor Day is observed globally on Sunday, June 14, 2026.

SERHA said hospitals are seeing increased need for blood to treat emergencies and support major medical procedures. The authority is asking the public to help strengthen the country’s blood stocks so patients can get timely care when blood is urgently required.

Two large donation sessions are being organised by SERHA in the weeks ahead. Spanish Town Hospital will collect blood on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at its Blood Collection Centre. Victoria Jubilee Hospital is scheduled to hold its drive on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm in the hospital parking lot.

According to SERHA, donated blood is needed for people having surgery, persons injured in crashes and other accidents, mothers facing complications in childbirth, cancer patients, and people managing chronic illnesses. Health officials said one blood donation may assist several patients and helps hospitals remain ready for urgent cases.

Dr Jacqueline Wright-James, senior medical officer at Spanish Town Hospital, said a dependable group of voluntary donors is vital for patient care. “You never know when you or someone you love may need blood, so do not wait to become a donor. Regular blood donors play a very critical role in ensuring hospitals are prepared for emergencies and patient care needs,” said Dr Wright-James.

She also sought to ease fears about giving blood, saying the procedure is safe, straightforward and can benefit donors. “Many persons believe donating blood will make them weak, but this is not true. The body quickly replaces the donated fluid and red blood cells, allowing donors to maintain normal strength and function. Blood donation can also provide health benefits, including a free health screening before donation, helping to reduce excess iron levels, and even burning calories as the body works to replenish the blood supply,” she explained.

People may qualify to donate if they are 16 to 60 years old, weigh more than 110 pounds, have controlled high blood pressure, and are in generally good health and feeling well at the time of donation.