LOCAL residents are urged to donate for their City in the annual blood challenge between Joondalup, Wanneroo and Stirling.
The Tri-Cities Blood Challenge, which kicks off this month, is in its third year and aims to save the lives of 20,000 people.
Last year more than 6300 blood donations were made during the three-month challenge, saving the lives of close to 19,000 people.
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READ NOWAustralian Red Cross Blood Service spokeswoman Jessica Willet said they hoped the challenge would encourage first-time blood donors to get involved.
“Every month we need 8000 new donors to give blood,” she said.
Joondalup Mayor Albert Jacob said the City was keen to stay number one after winning both the community and corporate challenges last year.
“Over 2300 donations in total during the period of both challenges equated to almost 7000 lives saved, which was a fantastic effort,” he said.
“I encourage everyone in our community to once again donate blood to ensure we stay number one and more importantly play your role in saving someone’s life.”
Wanneroo Mayor Tracey Roberts acknowledged the success of the challenge and hoped everyone would donate blood, regardless of where they lived.
“I encourage everyone from all suburbs to get behind this life-saving initiative and donate desperately needed blood,” she said.
“It would also be an added bonus if we could reclaim our 2016 title.”
Stirling Mayor Mark Irwin said giving blood was one of the easiest ways for residents to make a difference.
“I know many of us would like to make a meaningful contribution to our community but can’t always find time, but giving blood is an easy way to make this kind of contribution,” he said.
“Stirling hasn’t claimed a title yet, so this is a great chance for us to step up and make a real impact.”
Visit http://www.donateblood.com.au/ or call 13 14 95.