From October 5 to November 7, 2026, the University Marie and Louis Pasteur (UMLP) is joining a blood donation challenge in Besançon with SUPMICROTECH, the Femto laboratory, and the French Blood Establishment (EFS). The event aims to encourage more people to donate blood or plasma, which is essential for patients in need of transfusions. Donors can participate either at the Besançon Blood Donation House, located at 8 Rue du Dr Jean-François Xavier Girod, 25000 Besançon, or at a special collection event at the Kursaal in Besançon on November 4. The event will take place from 10 am to 2 pm and from 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm, and no appointment is needed for these times. Alternatively, appointments can be made through the EFS website at dondesang.efs.sante.fr/trouver-une-collecte. The initiative is open to both returning donors and those who are donating for the first time. Healthcare professionals will be present at the donation sites to provide support and guidance, especially for first-time donors. Participants can choose to donate in the name of a specific team, such as "UMLP" for the university team, when making an appointment or upon arrival at the donation center. This allows individuals to contribute to their organization, institution, or personal group's total number of donations. The challenge aims to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation and to show that it is a vital, accessible act that can help save lives. By encouraging people to donate in the name of their team, the event hopes to foster a sense of community and shared purpose among participants. The organizers believe that this approach can make the donation process more engaging and meaningful for those involved. At the end of the challenge, the team that successfully mobilizes the most donors will be awarded a "solidarity trophy." This recognition is intended to celebrate the collective effort of participants and to reinforce the value of blood donation as a social and humanitarian act. The event highlights how individuals can come together to support a common cause and make a positive impact on their community.