The next Red Cross blood drive is being held in the upstairs room at First Mennonite, 101 S. Jackson St., on Thursday,  Dec. 6. from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.

Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in Indiana and Ohio), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Additionally,  individuals donating blood in Decemeber  can be entered into a region-wide weekly drawing for a $250 gasoline gift card.

“Only when volunteer donors make time to help save a life can we be sure that blood is available for those in need,” said Sharyn Whitman, CEO of the Red Cross Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region. “Giving blood and to help others is a wonderful way to give something meaningful this holiday season."