The northwestern regions of Syria face numerous challenges, including high population density and ongoing violence. Amidst these difficulties, the demand for healthcare services, particularly blood centers, has surged. Daily requests for blood donations rose throughout the region, as individuals require life-saving surgeries as they have been injured in bombings, shelling, and accidents. To address the critical need, Watan has launched the “Blood Bank Network” project, which aims to revolutionize the blood donation and distribution system in the region. To reduce the strain on healthcare services, WATAN has taken a proactive approach by establishing a centralized system that connects blood banks and hospitals. The project’s mission is to ensure the safe and efficient management of blood resources, from collection to distribution, ultimately saving countless lives. We had the privilege of speaking with Basil Sabagh, the project manager of the Blood Bank Network, who shed light on the transformative impact it has had on the healthcare landscape. To guarantee the safety and availability of blood units, WATAN has implemented a sophisticated digital tracking system. Through the use of barcodes and an integrated mobile application, every blood unit can now be efficiently identified, tracked, and monitored. This approach optimizes the utilization of blood resources, reducing waste due to expired or underutilized units. Basil Sabagh emphasized the importance of this system in ensuring that each unit reaches its intended recipient promptly and securely. To narrow the gap between blood supply and demand, WATAN has deployed dedicated teams for blood collection and distribution. They work tirelessly, traveling across different regions to collect blood from donors. Equipped with mobile units, their efficiency and responsiveness enable them to transport blood units to hospitals in need swiftly.

The impact of their efforts has been immense, with over 11,433 units of whole blood collected and 13,342 blood units distributed within the first two months of the project. During our interviews, we had the privilege of speaking with recipients whose lives have been transformed by the Blood Bank Network. Their heartfelt stories shed light on the profound impact of WATAN’s humanitarian work. One survivor, Fatima, shared her journey of receiving a life-saving blood transfusion after a devastating accident. She expressed her deepest gratitude to the selfless donors and the dedicated Watan team for their unwavering support during her time of need. The Blood Bank Network project extends its support beyond blood banks to encompass 58 public hospitals across northwestern Syria. WATAN provides essential medical and laboratory supplies, as well as logistical resources to enhance the productivity and efficiency of blood banks. Simultaneously, training sessions are conducted to ensure the highest quality standards in blood banking operations. The collaborative efforts of WATAN and its partners have fostered a resilient healthcare system that saves lives and brings hope to those in need. The need for sustained support becomes crucial as the Blood Bank Network continues to impact the lives of countless individuals in northwestern Syria positively. WATAN, together with its dedicated team and partners, invites supporters and donors to join hands in advancing this transformative project. By working together, we can create a brighter future for the people of Syria, ensuring access to vital healthcare and rebuilding lives.WATAN’s Blood Bank Network project stands as a testament to the organization’s commitment to humanitarian work. Through its innovative approach and collaborative efforts, WATAN has revitalized the blood donation and distribution system in northwestern Syria, saving lives and providing hope to those facing unimaginable challenges.