Facebook set up 2000 blood donation events on the platform

Facebook in association with National Blood Transfusion Council and Giants Welfare Foundation set up 2000 blood donation events on the platform on the occasion of World Blood Donor Day.

On the occasion of World Blood Donor Day, Facebook launches Blood Donations on Facebook, a new centre where people in India can find opportunities to donate nearby. It also announced that it is partnering with organizations across India, including the National Blood Transfusion Council, a division of India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and Giants Welfare Foundation, to set up over 2,000 blood donation events on Facebook this month, which will be featured in the new Blood Donation center.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. Shobhini Rajan, - Assistant Director General at Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India said, “Creating blood donation events on Facebook can enable voluntary blood donors by giving them easy access to information and also help raise awareness for regular blood donations, especially in our country which faces blood shortage. Our own efforts to ensure adequate and safe blood transfusion services in the country will receive a boost from these events. Additionally, this will also help us retain and engage regular donors. ”

"Glad that our Giants Welfare Foundation has been able to partner with Facebook and the Health Ministry for this great blood donation drive. Sharing is caring by donating. Donate your blood and care for mankind.” added Shaina NC, World Chairperson, Giants Welfare Foundation

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Announced at F8,The ‘Blood Donations’ center shows people opportunities to donate in their city, including nearby blood donation events, requests for blood donors and blood banks. People who visit ‘Blood Donations’ on Facebook can also sign up to be a blood donor and get notified directly when there is a need for blood nearby.

Speaking on the initiative, Hema Budaraju, Product Lead, Health, Facebook said, “We know that when donors have information and opportunities to give, they step up to help. But often donors don't know where and when to donate. Blood Donations on Facebook aims to bridge these gaps by providing information on the opportunities available nearby. We hope that by raising awareness and letting people know where and when they can donate, we can increase blood donations and contribute to a more sustainable blood supply.”

Till date, more than11million people have signed up in countries including India, Bangladesh and Pakistan and thousands of donations have been facilitated through Facebook. The Blood Donations centre can be accessed from the explore menu on the device.

FB Live interaction with Honorable Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Jagat Prakash Nadda:

https://www.facebook.com/FacebookIndia/videos/1744540808916166/