“Blood Donation is Life Donation”
A humanitarian blood donation program brings unity and compassion to the Bhutanese Refugee Camp in Beldangi
BELDANGI, Jhapa — October 17, 2025 (Kartik 1, 2082 B.S.)
A remarkable blood donation program was successfully organized at the Bhutanese Refugee Camp in Beldangi, marking yet another inspiring example of unity, compassion, and community service among the Bhutanese diaspora and local residents.
The event was organized by Global Foundation Nepal in collaboration with the Camp Management Committee Beldangi, Bhutanese Christian Society Beldangi, and several Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) within the camp. The program was coordinated by the Nepal Red Cross Society, Damak, ensuring proper medical supervision and safety during the donation process.
Purpose and Theme: “Blood Donation = Life Donation”
The event carried a powerful slogan: “Raktadan Jeevandaan”, meaning Blood Donation is Life Donation. The core purpose of the campaign was to promote the message that no one—whether a Bhutanese refugee or a Nepali citizen—should lose their life due to a lack of blood.
In a community where limited resources and health facilities often create challenges, such initiatives hold deep meaning. The program aimed not only to collect blood but also to raise awareness about the importance of regular blood donation and community responsibility.
The Beginning: A Gesture of Responsibility and Hope
The event commenced with members of Global Foundation Nepal stepping forward to donate blood, symbolizing the foundation’s long-standing commitment to humanitarian work. Their act of service set the tone for the day, inspiring others to participate wholeheartedly.
Among the early donors was Mr. Sancha Hang Subba, Secretary of the Camp Management Committee Beldangi. Leading by example, Mr. Subba emphasized that leadership is not only about words but about action. His participation encouraged many young people in the camp to volunteer as well.
Adding a beautiful global touch to the event, Bhutanese youths from the United States of America also participated in the blood donation campaign. Despite living abroad, they have continued to stay connected with their roots and community. Their involvement was a reminder that compassion and responsibility transcend geographical boundaries.
Members of the Bhutanese Christian Society Beldangi, particularly its young brothers and sisters, also played an active role in the campaign by donating blood and helping manage the event. Their teamwork and enthusiasm reflected the collective strength of faith-based and community-driven organizations working together for a shared cause.
By the end of the program, about 25 to 30 individuals had donated blood—each unit carrying the potential to save multiple lives.
Distinguished Guests and Leadership
The event was graced by several prominent figures who have consistently supported the Bhutanese refugee community. The Chief Guest of the program was Mr. Praja Dhital, Founder and President of the Global Foundation of America, who is known for his tireless dedication to health and education initiatives in both Nepal and among resettled Bhutanese communities worldwide.
The program was chaired by Mr. Bhola Dhital, President of Global Foundation Nepal, who has been instrumental in coordinating social welfare activities in and around the camp.
Other distinguished guests included Mr. Sancha Hang Subba, Secretary of the Camp Management Committee Beldangi, and Mr. T.B. Rai, former Camp Secretary, both of whom have long histories of community service and leadership.
During the program, Global Foundation Nepal presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Chief Guest Mr. Praja Dhital in recognition of his continued support and contribution to improving the health and well-being of the Bhutanese refugee community.
Words that Touched Hearts: “Giving Back to the Community”
“What I and my organization have done is not charity—it is a responsibility toward my own community. Remembering my days in Beldangi, I feel deeply fulfilled to say—‘Giving back to the community is one of the greatest satisfactions of my life. The place where I grew up will always be close to my heart, and I will continue to serve it in every possible way.’”
His words resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom had known Mr. Dhital since his days in the camp. For the younger generation, his presence served as a reminder that success is most meaningful when shared with those who helped shape one’s journey.
Mr. Dhital also made a significant announcement during his speech. He stated that the Global Foundation of America will soon be arranging an ambulance service for the Bhutanese refugee community in Beldangi, addressing one of the camp’s long-standing needs for emergency medical transportation. The announcement was met with heartfelt applause from attendees.
Voices of Gratitude and Concern
Expressing his appreciation, Mr. T.B. Rai, former camp secretary and respected community elder, thanked Global Foundation Nepal and Global Foundation of America for their unwavering commitment to improving community health.
Mr. Rai also took the opportunity to highlight an urgent concern. Beldangi camp still lacks a dedicated ambulance service, which often leads to difficulties in medical emergencies. He earnestly requested both foundations to support the community by providing an ambulance, calling it an essential step toward saving lives.
“Health is one of the most vital aspects of human life. We are grateful to those who have continuously stood beside us, and we sincerely hope that the dream of having an ambulance for our camp will soon become a reality.”
Similarly, Mr. Sancha Hang Subba, Secretary of the Camp Management Committee Beldangi, expressed deep gratitude toward the organizers and praised the spirit of cooperation among all participating organizations. He specifically acknowledged the contribution of Bhutanese youths living abroad, particularly in America, who continue to remember their roots and give back to their community.
A Message of Humanity and Solidarity
Throughout the program, a sense of unity and empathy filled the air. Volunteers from different backgrounds worked side by side—preparing registration tables, guiding donors, providing refreshments, and ensuring a smooth process under the supervision of the Nepal Red Cross medical team.
Each drop of blood collected represented not only a potential life saved but also the strength of a community that continues to stand together despite decades of hardship and displacement.
For many participants, the event was more than just a health campaign—it was a celebration of humanity and resilience. It demonstrated that even after years of challenges, the Bhutanese refugee community continues to uphold the values of care, cooperation, and mutual support.
A Step Toward a Healthier Future
The success of the blood donation program has inspired organizers to plan similar events in the future. Global Foundation Nepal and Global Foundation of America have expressed their commitment to continue supporting health and education initiatives that benefit vulnerable communities in Nepal and abroad.
Such programs not only strengthen the health system but also bring people together under the shared belief that helping others is the highest form of humanity.
Conclusion
The blood donation program in Beldangi served as a beautiful reminder that real change begins when people come together with compassion and purpose. From the organizers to the donors, from the community leaders to the youth volunteers—everyone played their part in making the event a success.
In a time when the world often feels divided, this initiative stood out as a symbol of hope, kindness, and shared humanity