The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is proud to spotlight the remarkable generosity of blood donors through the Extra Drop initiative — a growing movement that demonstrates how saving lives can go hand in hand with uplifting communities.
July is a time to celebrate blood donors under the theme ‘Not All Heroes Wear Capes.’ Through this theme, WCBS is drawing attention to a meaningful way in which ordinary individuals make an extraordinary difference – not only by donating blood, but also by extending their impact through an additional act of kindness.
Launched in March, the Extra Drop initiative enables blood donors to make a deeper impact on the communities they support. Instead of receiving a small token of appreciation after donating blood, donors can choose to forgo the token and request that WCBS donate R15 on their behalf to a charitable organisation. This simple yet significant gesture highlights the quiet heroism that defines so many blood donors.
To date, the initiative has supported The League of Friends of the Blind and Hannah’s Place of Safety – two organisations doing important work within the Western Cape. The next recipient of this donor-driven generosity will be the Lucky Lucy Foundation, a pro-quality of life organisation established in 2010 to relieve the suffering of severely neglected and abused domestic animals.
By opting into the Extra Drop, blood donors continue to serve as unsung heroes – everyday individuals quietly performing acts of compassion that carry lasting impact.
How It works:
- Donate blood: Visit any WCBS blood donation clinic to donate blood.
- Choose your gift: Before donating, select whether to keep the token of appreciation or have WCBS donate a monetary value on your behalf.
- Make a difference: If the donor chooses to forgo the token, WCBS contributes R15 to the featured charity.
- Charity focus: A new charity is selected every two months by the WCBS committee.
Heroism requires no cape. One donation can save up to three lives — and, with the Extra Drop, extend help even further into the community. For more information or to locate the nearest blood donation clinic, visit www.wcbs.org.za, download the WCBS App, or send a WhatsApp to 060 549 7244.
Do something remarkable: donate blood.
