Andorran Red Cross and MoraBanc Launch 7th Blood Donation Campaign

The Andorran Red Cross and MoraBanc Andorra Basketball Club have launched the seventh edition of their blood donation campaign, "La jugada que suma vides," set for Monday, 23 March, at the Toni Martí Pavilion in Andorra la Vella. The event will run from noon to 8pm, with organisers urging residents to dedicate 30 minutes to help maintain vital blood supplies.

Speaking at Monday's press conference in the club's offices, Red Cross secretary general Joan Saurí emphasised the ongoing need, stating that the healthcare system requires about 1,000 bags daily. Reserves typically range from 4,000 to 7,000 bags, enough for roughly one week but vulnerable to sudden demand spikes. The campaign targets 1,500 effective annual donations, including new donors to sustain stocks. Last year saw 206 attendees, with 177 successful donations and 24 first-timers. As of the launch, 25 people had pre-registered via QR codes on posters or links on partners' websites and social media, though Saurí encouraged walk-ins if space allows, noting flexibility for around 20% of slots due to no-shows or ineligibility.

Natalia De Felipe, the club's corporate social responsibility and protocol manager, called donors the true stars and highlighted sport's power to foster solidarity. All participants will receive double tickets to the 29 March home game against Baskonia at 5pm. Saurí pointed to the venue's appeal, observing that "not everyone can be right at the foot of the arena," while State Secretary for Youth and Sport Alain Cabanes praised its central location and ease of access. Cabanes, representing government support alongside SAAS and the Blood and Tissue Bank, said emails had gone to sports federations to maximise turnout.

Public works near Prada Motxilla and Baixada del Molí mean using the lower entrance by Casal de Govern, with volunteers guiding visitors; updates will post on Red Cross channels.

Donors must be 18-70 years old, over 50kg, in good health, and allow at least three months between donations—up to four yearly for men, three for women. An online form offers pre-event health self-checks.

Information stands will cover bone marrow and cornea donations to broaden awareness, with organisers aiming to establish this as Andorra's flagship national campaign.