Águilas sets new record for blood donations in 'donate for art' campaign

A total of 187 people donated blood during the event held at the Infanta Doña Elena Auditorium, with 54 first-time donors taking part

Águilas has once again proven the strength of its community spirit following a record-breaking turnout for the latest blood donation session at the Infanta Doña Elena Auditorium.

Now in its fifth year, the event is part of the 'Donar sangre por amor al arte' (Give blood for the love of art) campaign. Organised by the Regional Blood Donation Centre and the Manuel Coronado Friends of Culture Association, in partnership with Águilas Council, the project bridges the gap between local culture and vital healthcare.

The response this year was fantastic. Out of the 231 people who turned up, 187 were able to donate, and it was particularly great to see 54 first-time donors in the group. Organisers are always keen to see new faces, as getting younger or first-time donors into the habit is what keeps the system running in the long term. A big part of why it works so well is the venue itself, using the auditorium instead of a sterile clinic makes the whole experience feel much less daunting for everyone.

See also: Become a blood donor in Spain—Who can give blood in Spain and how to donate

As a little thank you for stepping up, everyone who took part walked away with a few gifts. They were treated to a cinema ticket for El Hornillo, a boat trip on the Don Pancho, a tote bag, and a special art print designed just for the campaign by local artist Araceli Reverte. 

What's most impressive isn't just the record numbers, though, but how consistent the support has stayed year after year. Águilas has managed to organise something that people feel comfortable coming back to time and again, while still bringing in new donors. It just goes to show that when something is well-run and feels like a part of the local culture, people are more than happy to get involved.

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Images: Águilas Town Hall