The continuity of blood donation is essential for Latvia’s healthcare system, as patients require blood every day following injuries, surgeries, childbirth, and in the treatment of various illnesses. To raise public awareness of the importance of blood donation and the need to regularly replenish blood supplies, Virši is launching cooperation with the State Blood Donor Centre (VADC).
Starting from June, informational materials have been placed at Virši service stations, inviting people to donate blood at their nearest State Blood Donor Centre donation site or mobile donation point. As a token of appreciation for their involvement, each donor will receive a coupon for one Virši coffee.
“Our service stations are visited by thousands of people across Latvia every day, so we see an opportunity to use this broad reach for an important social cause. Blood donation is one of those forms of support where every individual’s involvement can be decisive, yet often all it takes is a simple encouragement or reminder to take the first step. We want to make information about donation more visible and accessible, as well as thank donors with a small but heartfelt boost of energy – a delicious Virši coffee,” says Jānis Vība, Chairman of the Management Board of AS VIRŠI-A.
During the campaign, specially designed coffee cups dedicated to the State Blood Donor Centre will also be available at all Virši stations, while blood supply indicators will be placed at fuel pumps, allowing customers to follow up-to-date information on which blood types are most needed at any given moment. In this way, Virši aims to reach a broad audience in their daily routines and remind them that donating blood is a simple yet highly meaningful way to help others.
“In many critical situations, a patient’s ability to receive the necessary care depends directly on the generosity of donors, which is why their contribution is truly irreplaceable. It is important for us not only to reach out to new donors, but also to express our gratitude to those who donate blood regularly. We would like to extend a special thank you to Virši for their cooperation and support – such initiatives are a significant contribution that donors truly appreciate and that encourages them to continue donating in the future. Together, we can strengthen the culture of donation in society and ensure that blood is available to everyone who needs it,” says Egita Pole, Director of the State Blood Donor Center.
Last year, more than 36,000 donors in Latvia donated blood over 63,000 times. A single donation can help up to three people, which means that behind these figures are countless patients for whom donor responsiveness has provided the opportunity to recover, continue treatment, or even saved their lives. Without the support of donors, this would not be possible.
The State Blood Donor Centre reminds that blood donation is not harmful to a healthy person. On the contrary, after donating blood, the body’s blood-forming system is stimulated and the composition of the blood is renewed. Regular donors often tolerate significant blood loss more easily in the event of surgery, injury, or another accident.
Blood can be donated at the State Blood Donor Centre’s permanent donation sites in Riga and the regions, as well as the Center's mobile donation units across Latvia. Up-to-date information on donation sites, mobile units, and needed blood types is available on the State Blood Donor Center’s website and social media channels.
About Virši:
Virši is a rapidly growing local energy commodities trader and convenience store network with more than 30 years of experience. Currently, Virši operates 84 service stations and has more than 900 employees throughout Latvia. Since 11 November 2021, the shares of AS VIRŠI-A have been listed on the Nasdaq Riga First North Alternative Market.
Additional information:
Undīne Priekule
Communication Manager at Virši
Tel.: (+371) 26 141 219
E-mail: undine.priekule@virsi.lv
www.virsi.lv
