The Municipal Youth Secretariat brings together donors to replenish blood supplies at Hemorio (Rio de Janeiro's blood bank).

The initiative seeks to reverse the 15% drop in inventories projected for the end of the year; the action included the presence of Flamengo player Mozer and special transportation logistics - Photo: Laryssa Lomenha - JUVRio1

During one of the most critical periods for blood donation in Rio de Janeiro, the Municipal Youth Secretariat (JUVRio) transformed the Casa da Juventude Centro, in Gamboa, into a center of solidarity last Tuesday (December 9th). The initiative, in partnership with the Guanabara Group, the Flamengo Museum, and Hemorio (the Rio de Janeiro Blood Bank), aimed to replenish blood supplies before the end-of-year holidays, a time when the number of donations typically drops between 10% and 15%, according to the Institute. In just five hours, Hemorio registered 31 people interested in donating. Twenty-three donors were deemed eligible and donated blood. Each bag of blood can save up to four lives.

The mobilization included special logistics to facilitate the participation of volunteers, including transportation for collaborators. The presence of Flamengo player Mozer, made possible by the Flamengo Museum, also attracted fans and broadened the campaign's reach. Among the donors, 25-year-old Davi Gomes, a resident of Guaratiba, said he felt motivated by the urgent need to replenish supplies.

“What made me cross the city to come and make the donation was knowing that I could contribute at a time when collection is even more necessary. And, of course, Mozer's presence caught my attention, because I'm a die-hard Flamengo fan,” he said.

“I was very happy to support such a noble cause. I strongly believe that when you do good, you receive good. Today's young people have more than enough health to contribute for many years and help others stay healthy and recover,” said Mozer.

The Municipal Secretary for Youth, Gabriella Rodrigues, highlighted the role of the Rio de Janeiro Youth Secretariat in building a more cooperative city.

“With this type of action, JUVRio encourages the civic role of young people in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Our equipment is available to encourage solidarity and reinforce the importance of understanding that society functions better when we cooperate with each other. The drop in Hemorio's blood stocks caught our attention, especially at this time of year, and young people are at the forefront of helping those in need and reinforcing the awareness that donating blood saves lives,” he said.

The Marketing Director of the Guanabara Group, Leticia Pineschi, highlighted that the act of donating blood emerged as a concrete way to reaffirm the solidarity and the capacity of the people of Rio de Janeiro to unite around life.

"It was an opportunity to transform a simple gesture into a real impact on the lives of those in need, mobilizing our employees, customers, and followers on our social media," said Leticia Pineschi.

During the event, Hemorio emphasized that all blood types are welcome and reminded donors of the basic requirements: carrying an official photo ID, being between 16 and 69 years old, weighing more than 50 kg, and being in good health. They also advised volunteers to avoid fatty foods in the four hours prior to donation and alcoholic beverages in the 12 hours prior to donation.