The life-saving impact of donating blood is the focus of a new Permanent stamp issued by Canada Post.
Released on June 11 to coincide with National Blood Donor Week and ahead of World Blood Donor Day on June 14, the stamp features a stylized heart containing a drop of blood. Within the blood drop are concentric rings symbolizing the far-reaching effects a single donation can have on the lives of recipients, their families and the donors themselves.
According to Canada Post, the design reflects the central message that one donation can make a profound difference. The Crown corporation notes that a single blood donation can be separated into red blood cells, plasma and platelets, potentially helping up to three patients.
Designed by Kristine Do and illustrated by Peter Grundy, the stamp uses simple imagery to convey a powerful message. According to Canada Post, the heart motif highlights the altruistic nature of blood donation, while the concentric rings within the blood drop symbolize the positive “ripple effects” donations have on both recipients and donors.
The design is intended to recognize the critical role blood donors play in Canada’s health-care system while encouraging new and returning donors to give blood.
Canada Post says the issue also highlights the continuing need for blood donors across the country. While roughly half of Canadians are eligible to donate blood, only about two per cent currently do so.
According to the Crown corporation, blood transfusions are required daily for patients undergoing surgery, cancer treatment, trauma care and treatment for a variety of medical conditions. Canada Post notes that a heart surgery patient may require blood from multiple donors, while accident victims and leukemia patients can require substantial and ongoing transfusions.
The corporation also points out that there is currently no artificial substitute for human blood.
The stamp was printed by Lowe-Martin and is available in booklets of six Permanent stamps.
An Official First Day Cover was also produced and bears an Ottawa cancellation, recognizing the city as the headquarters of Canadian Blood Services.
The stamp and related philatelic products are available through Canada Post retail outlets and online.
Stamp details
Issue date: June 11, 2026
Denomination: Permanent
Designer: Kristine Do
Illustrator: Peter Grundy
Printer: Lowe-Martin
Format: Booklet of six stamps
Official First Day Cover cancellation: Ottawa, Ont.
More images:
Blood Donation OFDC
Blood Donation OFDC Back
Blood Donation Booklet
Blood Donation Booklet Cover
Blood Donation Booklet Cover Back