The drive saw 74 potential donors come forward, which resulted in 52 successful donations and exceeded the South African National Blood Service’s (SANBS) target of 50 units.

SANBS public relations practitioner Nina van Wyk said what made the blood drive more remarkable was the fact that over 50% of participants were first-time donors. “Our hope is that they can now be recruited for future blood drives and become regular donors.”

According to Van Wyk, the Eastern Cape branch of the SANBS required 3 725 units per month to meet the existing need. “Currently, we are experiencing a blood shortage with only 2.9 days stock on hand, while we need at least five days stock in reserve.”

Van Wyk said the SANBS’s aim was to make blood donation as easy and accessible as possible, which was why the shopping centre was chosen as a suitable venue. “We always experience good support from Pier 14 and look forward to an ongoing partnership.”

Sophia Steyn of centre management said blood donation was a vital community service and that Pier 14 was happy to assist in highlighting the work of the SANBS wherever it could. She said those shoppers who gave blood were true heroes. “Donating blood costs you nothing but doing your bit can literally save someone else’s life.”

Umhlobo Wenene FM DJs Amaza Ntshanga and Nonala Tose hosted their show live from the centre, keeping the public informed with regular updates and encouraging shoppers to get involved.

Go to www.facebook.com/Pier14PE to see more photos. For further information, contact Pier 14 centre management on 041 484 1229 or manager@pier14.co.za.