Monthly Blood Drive Launches Friday
A new community-led blood donation programme will begin on the last Friday of each month to bolster supplies at the Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital. The six-month pilot, organised by Baker & Partners, International Motors and Riteway, aims to reduce reliance on imported blood and become a sustained local effort.
A community-driven monthly blood donation programme is set to launch this Friday to support the Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital blood bank, organisers announced in an interview with Virgin Islands News Online. The initiative, led independently by Baker & Partners together with International Motors and Riteway, will run on the last Friday of each month on a pilot basis for six months.
If successful, organisers say the programme could be expanded into a long-term, self-sustaining effort to ensure a steady local supply of blood. Orlando Smith Hospital is the British Virgin Islands' primary public hospital and has historically relied heavily on imported blood supplies.
Organisers say that establishing a regular local donation rhythm will improve the hospital’s ability to respond quickly to emergencies and routine transfusion needs, and reduce delays associated with sourcing blood from off-island. Kymianne Frett of Baker & Partners told Virgin Islands News Online that the initiative aims to build a consistent supply: "We hope that this blood donation programme, which will be launched on a pilot basis for six months, can be expanded into a long-term, self-sustaining community initiative." She added that the community is well placed to help the hospital meet ongoing emergency blood needs but stressed the importance of broad public awareness so the programme remains consistent.
Wheatley (R9) is expected to attend the launch, underscoring government interest in improving local health resilience. Organisers said they will promote each monthly drive and urged residents to watch local media and community channels for details on times and drop-off locations. The programme seeks to engage residents across the territory.
Community blood drives can shorten response times during emergencies, support routine surgeries and maternity care, and help maintain critical services during periods when imports may be delayed—for example, following severe weather or transport disruptions. Those interested in participating are encouraged to follow announcements from Baker & Partners, International Motors and Riteway, and to contact the hospital or the organisers directly for eligibility criteria and more information.
According to organisers, successful community participation will be key to making this pilot a permanent, reliable source of blood for the territory.
Primary source: VINO