The Bangalore Konkani Catholic Sangh (BKCS) successfully organized a blood donation camp at St. Anthony’s Friary Church on Sunday, March 22, 2026, receiving an encouraging response from the community. The camp was conducted in collaboration with a certified blood bank team from St. John’s Medical College Hospital.

The initiative was supported by Dr. Vanamala, Professor and Head of the Department of Transfusion Medicine at St. John’s Medical College Hospital, who deputed a trained medical team to oversee the camp. The team ensured strict adherence to safety protocols, including donor screening, monitoring during the donation process, and post-donation care. The primary objective of the camp was to promote awareness about voluntary blood donation and support the hospital in maintaining adequate blood supplies.

With the dedicated efforts of over 50 volunteers, including BKCS members and youth participants, the camp was conducted seamlessly. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from both first- time and regular donors, reflecting a strong sense of social responsibility and community spirit. The inaugural proceedings were gracefully anchored by Ms. Rhea Menezes, who warmly welcomed the Chief Guest, Mr. J. Aloysius Kanthraj. Rev. Fr. Prashanth Fernandes, Parish Priest of St. Anthony’s Friary Church and Spiritual Director of BKCS, led the opening prayer, invoking blessings for the smooth conduct of the program.

Addressing the gathering, BKCS President Mrs. Aida D’Cunha emphasized that the camp is part of the association’s ongoing commitment to community welfare and assured that similar initiatives would continue in the future. She extended a warm welcome to the Chief Guest, Mr. J. Aloysius Kanthraj, the first lay PRO and Spokesperson of the Archdiocese of Bangalore, acknowledging his continued support and guidance. She also welcomed Rev. Fr. Prashanth Fernandes, the medical team from St. John’s Medical College Hospital, BKCS office bearers, executive committee members, and all participants.

In his address, Chief Guest Mr. J. Aloysius Kanthraj expressed that it was a privilege to witness such a noble initiative. He commended the organizers for bringing together generous individuals committed to saving lives. Highlighting the importance of blood donation, he noted that it remains one of the simplest yet most impactful acts of kindness, as a single unit of blood can save multiple lives and offer hope to those in critical need. He further appreciated the compassion and community spirit demonstrated by the donors and expressed gratitude for their selfless service.

The camp concluded on a successful note, with a total collection of 126 units of blood, surpassing last year’s collection of 123 units. This achievement was particularly noteworthy given the extended holiday weekend due to consecutive festivals. The organizers expressed heartfelt gratitude to all volunteers, donors, medical staff, and supporters whose collective efforts made the camp a meaningful and impactful success.