Giving blood is one of the simplest ways to make a genuine difference, and this August, donors across Wrocław will also receive a small culinary thank you for their generosity.
The Regional Blood Donation and Blood Treatment Centre (RCKiK) in Wrocław has teamed up with a range of local cafés, restaurants and food venues for the third edition of the “Donate Blood, Visit Gastro” (Oddaj krew, odwiedź gastro) campaign. Running from 1 to 31 August, the initiative encourages more people to donate during one of the most challenging periods of the year for blood supplies.
Rather than offering a reward for donation, the participating hospitality businesses are providing a symbolic gesture of appreciation through vouchers that can be redeemed after giving blood.
One of the Most Difficult Times for Blood Supplies
The campaign arrives at a crucial point in the year. During the summer holidays, many regular donors are away on holiday, while students leave the city for the break. At the same time, hospitals continue to require a steady supply of blood for surgery, emergency treatment, cancer care and many other medical procedures.
Organisers say previous editions proved highly successful, leading to a noticeable increase in donations and helping maintain safe blood stocks for hospitals across Lower Silesia during the holiday season.
By bringing together healthcare and local independent businesses, the initiative also highlights how different parts of the community can work together to support an important cause.
How the Campaign Works
Anyone who donates blood during the campaign period at an eligible RCKiK donation point will receive one voucher, which can be used at participating restaurants and cafés.
The vouchers include complimentary drinks, selected dishes and exclusive discounts prepared especially for honorary blood donors. They are valid until 5 September and must be redeemed on site at participating venues.
Each donor is entitled to receive one voucher during the campaign.
Where to Donate
Eligible donations can be made between 1 and 31 August, on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, at:
- RCKiK’s main headquarters on ul. Czerwonego Krzyża 5/9 in Wrocław
- Mobile blood donation events organised by RCKiK on eligible campaign days
- RCKiK branch centres in Głogów, Legnica and Lubin
Who Can Donate
Most healthy adults aged 18 to 65 who weigh at least 50 kilograms may be eligible to donate blood. If you are not a Polish citizen, you can still donate blood as long as you have a valid ID (Passport, Residence card) and are able to communicate in Polish enough to be able to go through the questionnaire and interview by yourself, without the assistance of a third person or translator.
Before attending, donors should:
- Eat a light meal before donating
- Stay well hydrated by drinking around 1.5 to 2 litres of fluids daily in the days leading up to donation
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours beforehand
- Bring a valid photo ID with a PESEL number, or use the mObywatel app with the mTożsamość service activated
Some medical conditions, medications and recent travel may affect eligibility, so prospective donors should check the latest guidance before visiting a donation centre.
Supporting Local Businesses While Helping Others
Although saving lives remains the focus of the campaign, the partnership also shines a spotlight on Wrocław’s vibrant food scene. Donors have the chance to discover new cafés and restaurants while enjoying a small token of appreciation from businesses that have chosen to support the city’s blood donation efforts.
For residents who have been considering donating for the first time, August offers an opportunity to contribute to local healthcare at a time when every donation can make a real difference.
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