Phuket Red Cross Launches Songkran Blood Donation Drive

The Phuket branch of the Red Cross has announced a special blood donation campaign in celebration of Songkran. Donors are invited to give blood from April 7 to April 15 at the regional blood center, Phuket RBC, as well as at various mobile donation units across the island. As a token of appreciation, participants will receive commemorative T-shirts—perfect for joining in the traditional water festivities during the Thai New Year.

The main donation center operates on the following schedule:

• Monday and Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

• Tuesday to Thursday: 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM

• Weekends and public holidays: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Mobile donation drives will also be held at multiple locations throughout April, including universities, hotels, shopping centers, and local institutions such as Rajabhat University, Central Phuket Floresta, and King Power Phuket.

In addition to the Red Cross center, donors can give blood daily at Vachira Phuket Hospital. However, those wishing to donate for a specific patient should confirm the correct location in advance. For example, Bangkok Hospital Phuket only accepts donor blood supplied through Phuket RBC. This is particularly important for those wishing to help patients in urgent need, such as accident victim Gert Geers, who is currently awaiting surgery.

The blood donation unit at Vachira Phuket Hospital is open:

• Weekdays: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM

• Weekends and holidays: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Mobile donation units organized by the hospital will also visit various locations across Phuket throughout the month, including government offices, resorts, and commercial centers.

The campaign aims to encourage community participation during Songkran while helping ensure a stable blood supply for patients in need across the island.