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 enthusiastic 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 led 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 goal of the camp was to promote awareness about voluntary blood donation and support the hospital in maintaining adequate blood supplies.

With the dedication of over 50 volunteers, including BKCS members and youth participants, the camp was conducted seamlessly. Both first-time and regular donors participated enthusiastically, reflecting a strong sense of social responsibility and community spirit.

The inaugural proceedings were gracefully anchored by Ms. Rhea Menezes, who 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.

BKCS President Mrs. Aida D’Cunha highlighted 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 welcomed Chief Guest Mr. J. Aloysius Kanthraj, the first lay PRO and Spokesperson of the Archdiocese of Bangalore, and acknowledged his continued support and guidance. She also welcomed Rev. Fr. Prashanth Fernandes, the medical team from St. John’s, 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 is 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 successfully 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.

A special word of appreciation was extended to the office bearers – Vice President Mark D’Souza, Secretary Anil Johnson, Joint Secretary Steeven, and Treasurer Maxim Lobo – for their dedication and exemplary teamwork. Gratitude was also expressed to Immediate Past Secretary Nathaline Rodrigues, along with Dorin Rasquinha, Gabriel D’Souza, and Maxim Lobo for their valuable support and contributions.

Thanks were also extended to Immediate Past President Sunil Cutinho for his guidance, and to Media Manager Peter Rebello for his continued support. A special mention was made of Ms. Rhea Menezes, who arrived early to efficiently coordinate arrangements and gracefully hosted the inaugural ceremony.

The presence and encouragement of past presidents – William Pinto, Menderline Machado, and Valerian Fernandes – were deeply appreciated. Special thanks were extended to Sharon Rego and Edward D’Souza from FKCA for their support and encouragement. Heartfelt gratitude was expressed to all committee members who donated blood and stayed until the end, contributing to the overall success of the camp.

Sincere thanks were given to Dr. Fulton D’Souza for facilitating the coordination with his team, and to the St. John’s team for their dedicated efforts and professionalism in conducting the blood collection process.

Gratitude was also extended to Mr. Leo Sequeira for his presence throughout the program and for sponsoring snacks and fruits, and to Mr. Edward D’Souza for providing breakfast. Appreciation went to Nathaline Rodrigues, Menderline Machado, Andrea Pinto, Dorin Rasquinha, Veera Diana S’Souza, Adeline Rodricks, Metilda Rego, Nolla D’Souza, and Seema Crasta for sponsoring flowers and lunch, mobilizing donors, and extending support until the conclusion of the event.

Special thanks were extended to Raji Baretto for leading the beautiful prayer, and to Gabriel D’Souza, Sharon D’Souza, Melroy D’Souza, Diana Rasquinha, Meera Mascarenhas, Arun Braggs, Preema Pinto, and many others for their wholehearted support and contribution.

The youth volunteers, including Telwin D’Souza, Terin D’Souza, Sonal Veigas, and others, were recognized for their enthusiasm and active involvement. Lastly, sincere gratitude was expressed to all BKCS members for their generous participation in donating blood, making the camp a resounding success.