Give life

The 9th day of Christmas

Some donations mean much more than money. Every Christmas, the Australian Red Cross Blood Service calls for people to roll up their sleeves and give a gift that could save a life. The holiday season is a dif cult time for the service because many regular donors go away or take a break, but the need for blood never stops and because some blood products only last a few days, constant replenishment is vital. You can make an appointment to donate blood between December 26 and 31 by calling 13 14 95 or visiting donateblood.com.au

In South Australia, the Red Cross has launched a new initiative to save the lives of vulnerable babies born too early. The Milk Bank delivers pasteurised, donated breast milk straight to neonatal nurseries in Adelaide. “Breastmilk increases immunity, is high in nutrients and easy for [premmie babies’] immature digestive systems to process,” says midwife educator Jennifer Gillis. For now the Milk Bank is only operational in SA, but there are plans to extend it. Find out more at milkbank.com.au