Canadian Blood Services aims to recruit 1 million new donors, inspired by Don Meister’s remarkable 306 donations.
Blood Donors in Demand: Canada’s Urgent Lifeline Call
Canadian Blood Services has launched its most ambitious campaign to date: recruiting 1 million new blood donors over the next five years. With a projected 50% increase in plasma needs and a 10% rise in overall blood demand, the nation’s health system faces serious pressure (source).
Only 2% of eligible Canadians currently donate, highlighting a major gap in participation. This renewed call to action isn’t just about numbers; it’s about saving lives, sustaining surgeries, cancer treatments, and emergency care.
Meet Don Meister: A Legacy Among Blood Donors
At the heart of this drive is 73-year-old blood donor Don Meister from Saskatoon. Since the 1980s, Meister has made over 306 donations, setting an example of selfless service. His journey began with a chance visit to a mobile clinic during his security job at a university (CTV News Report).
“If you want to save lives, but don’t want to be a firefighter or police officer, donate blood,” says Meister.
His dedication showcases the human side of health care, where quiet actions create life-saving impacts.
Why More Blood Donors Are Needed Now
The pandemic disrupted donation schedules, and as older donors age out, Canadian Blood Services is focused on attracting younger and first-time donors.
To support this mission:
- The “Who’s Saving Who?” campaign is rolling out nationally.
- Mobile blood clinics and expanded hours are being introduced.
- Educational efforts aim to bust myths around eligibility and safety.
Community Response and What’s Next
Early social media engagement and personal stories of recipients are reinforcing momentum. But success hinges on sustained awareness and accessibility.
The long-term goal? A resilient, inclusive, and responsive donor base. Canadian Blood Services is also calling on partners across provinces to integrate blood donation advocacy in schools, workplaces, and digital spaces.
Learn more: Medical Tourism: Insights into Canadians Choosing Overseas Care
How You Can Help
Become a donor today:
- Visit blood.ca to book an appointment
- Download the GiveBlood app
- Share your story and bring a friend
Also, read our internal feature on blood donation myths and how you can make a difference at Everyana Health.
