Andorran Red Cross Needs 512 More Blood Donations to Hit 1,500 Goal

The Andorran Red Cross has collected 988 blood donations so far in 2026 and needs 512 more to reach its annual target of 1,500 before year-end.

A new campaign at Lycée Comte de Foix in Andorra la Vella, scheduled for October 13-15, aims to help close the gap. The fourth edition of the school-based drive, themed "La sang també escriu futurs" (Blood Also Writes Futures), will run from 11am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm daily. Open to students, staff and the general public, it is organized with the lycée, SAAS health service and Grup CCA.

Students will assist by guiding donors and handling refreshments, an effort lycée principal Olivier Salvan described as vital for education. "This pedagogical dimension is essential," he said. "It allows students real public contact, collaboration with local partners and fosters solidarity, commitment and responsibility as future adults."

Red Cross secretary general Joan Saurí stressed the initiative's role in replenishing stocks and promoting volunteering among youth. Past drives at the school have yielded strong results, including 382 donations two years ago, 275 in the first event and 311 last November despite challenges—near 50 new donors joined that time. Officials expect 100 donations per day during the upcoming event, potentially exceeding 300 overall.

Around 20 slots are reserved for October 13, 14 for the 14th and eight for the 15th, with 10-20% no-shows anticipated due to ineligibility or other issues. Reservations can be made via the Blood and Tissue Bank website or QR code, though walk-ins are accepted.

Catalonia's Blood and Tissue Bank holds about 6,200 bags—"not many," Saurí said—driving continued promotion in Andorra. Eligibility covers ages 18-70, weight over 50kg and good health, with no recent surgery. Donors should check eligibility online, arrive fed and hydrated, and expect a 30-minute process that could save three lives. Further drives include two days at the University of Andorra in Sant Julià de Lòria.