Accra, March 19, GNA - About 150 people on Sunday donated blood to the Blood Bank of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital under a programme organised by the Hope Assemblies of God Church in Accra with a call on the public to help stock the Blood Bank with adequate supplies.

The Head Pastor, the Rev. Robert Arhin, said the public should not wait until blood dried out at the Bank before donating, adding that availability of blood at the right time would save the lives of people in need.

"As Christians, we are called upon to be each other's keeper; this is what true Christianity is all about," Rev. Arhin said.

Rev. Arhin called on members of the congregation to take part in the blood donation exercise since tests on their blood might reveal hidden diseases for early treatment.

Most of the participants GNA talked to said they were delighted to have taken part in the exercise to save life.

People with diseases such as diabetes and hypertension as well as pregnant women were excluded.

"Funding for family planning must be increased to meet the needs of these women, not only to determine the world's future, but also to prevent unintended pregnancies and reduce maternal and infant death." 19 March 07