Canary Islands Health Service Launches Mobile Blood Donation Drive in Tenerife

The Canary Islands’ healthcare system relies entirely on the generosity of the public. Because blood cannot be manufactured, the Canary Islands Health Service (SCS) depends on a steady stream of donations to keep hospital reserves stable, especially as social routines change and impact donation levels.

To make donating easier, the General Directorate of Blood Donation and Hemotherapy is bringing collection points directly to the community in Tenerife this week:

• La Orotava: Visit the El Trompo shopping center (next to Chinatown) from Monday, September 7, to Friday, September 11. Hours are 10:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• La Laguna: A mobile unit will be on Avenida El Paso, in front of the Guarapo cafeteria, on Monday, September 7. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.
• Arona: The Hospital del Sur will accept donors on Monday, September 7 (10:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.) and Tuesday, September 8 (10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.).

Blood components are perishable, and hospitals need a constant supply for everything from routine surgeries to cancer treatments. Health officials encourage eligible residents to make donating twice a year a regular habit to ensure the system remains self-sufficient.

To donate, you must be in good health, weigh at least 50 kilograms, and be between 18 and 65 years old (first-time donors must be 60 or younger). Pregnant women are not eligible to donate.

If you have questions about your eligibility, you can call the toll-free number 900 234 061 or visit efectodonacion.com for more information.