Canadian Blood Services to Launch New Plasma Donation Centre in Thunder Bay This April

Thunder Bay Plasma Donation Centre Set to Open in April

THUNDER BAY — Canadian Blood Services (CBS) has confirmed that its new plasma donation centre in Thunder Bay will officially open in April.

In preparation for the launch, CBS has been actively promoting plasma donation within the community, encouraging residents to sign up. Plasma donations are essential for producing immunoglobulins, which are administered intravenously to patients with weakened immune systems or neurological conditions.

“We’ve been engaging with local organizations and businesses to raise awareness and let people know they can now book appointments,” said Judy Jones, associate director of sales and execution at CBS.

Appointments can currently be scheduled online or by phone.

CBS previously operated a plasma donor centre in Thunder Bay but closed it in 2012 due to low demand. However, the need for plasma has significantly increased over the past decade.

“The demand for plasma has grown, and we’re relying on Canadians to help support patients in need,” Jones said. “The more people donate, the more we can assist individuals in our own communities by providing essential treatments that improve their quality of life.”

The new facility, located at 369 Main Street in the Thunder Centre, has been under preparation for some time.

“Our team has been training and getting ready, and we’re excited to welcome donors in April,” Jones added.

This Thunder Bay centre will be the 10th new donor site opened by CBS.

According to CBS guidelines, eligible plasma donors must:

• Be at least 17 years old
• Weigh at least 110 pounds (50 kilograms)
• Be in good general health
• Meet additional eligibility criteria

The CBS website features a screening quiz that asks about recent tattoos or piercings, international travel, recent dental procedures, and pregnancy history. Potential donors are also screened by CBS staff before each donation.

Jones acknowledged that participation might be slow initially, which is why early outreach is crucial.

“We know it will take time to build momentum, but we’re committed to engaging with the community and increasing awareness,” she said. “We expect to see steady growth month by month.”