HDB and the HDB Staff Union’s inaugural blood donation drive shows that strong labour-management ties can do more than improve workplaces—they can save lives.
When unions and companies come together, it is not always about settling grievances or managing disputes.
At the Housing and Development Board’s (HDB) 65th anniversary, the statutory board and the HDB Staff Union (HDBSU) decided to do something for the community.
There were no cakes or fancy meals. Instead, the two joined hands to conduct their inaugural blood donation drive—a testament to how strong labour-management relations can benefit the wider community.
A total of 105 staff came forward, with 71 having successfully donated blood. HDBSU shared that each donation can save up to three lives and potentially help more than 200 patients in hospitals across Singapore.
And for a country that needs 400 bags of blood daily, every drop counts.
The initiative was the brainchild of HDBSU General Secretary K Sampath.
A long-time advocate for giving back, he has donated blood more than 50 times since 1981.
His compassion was strengthened years ago when he rushed to donate blood for a colleague’s sister in critical condition.
That act helped save her life.
“As a regular blood donor, I've seen firsthand the impact it can have on people's lives. In my view, donating blood is a simple yet powerful way to give back to the community and make a real difference,” he said.
Mr Sampath believes that while many are willing to donate blood, stronger efforts are needed to inspire them to take that first step.
He said initiatives like more frequent blood drives, targeted outreach programmes, and increased recognition for regular donors can help drive the cause.
He suggested that agencies or companies could even grant staff time off to donate blood.
“I believe that every donation counts, and every effort makes a difference. I hope to continue donating and inspiring others to do the same,” he shared.
That same spirit of solidarity now defines the HDB family. The blood drive, born from a shared vision between management and union, shows what’s possible when workplace partnerships extend beyond contracts and committees.
It’s about nurturing values like empathy, community, and care that make HDB more than just a housing agency.
To further encourage such acts of giving, HDB has announced that, from 1 January 2026, staff will be able to use time off during office hours to volunteer for blood donation and community involvement.
As HDB continues to build homes and shape communities, this effort is a reminder that its greatest foundation lies not in concrete or steel, but in the compassion of its people.
Together, HDB and HDBSU are not just building Singapore’s housing estates—they’re building a nation that looks out for one another.