Department of National Defence - Canadian Forces Health Services

During the last year of World War II, Canadians donated 890,000 units of blood for use in military hospitals. This generous response gave birth to Canada’s voluntary blood system.

Members of the Canadian Armed Forces are some of the most generous blood donors. In 2006, the Department of National Defence became Canadian Blood Services’ first national Partner for Life organization. Since then, they have provided more than 40,000 blood donations to Canada’s national blood supply.

In 2019, Department of National Defence is aiming to contribute at least 500 new donors and 6,000 donations from Canadian Armed Forces and civilian employees across the country. Besides pledged support, partners can also adopt specific clinics, arrange group donations, and help raise awareness of the need for donors.

During the month of November to commemorate Remembrance Day, Canadian Blood Services encourages Canadians to donate blood in honour of the women and men of the Canadian Armed Forces.