The American Red Cross is having a blood drive next week at First Christian Church, 1000 Ky.

The event will be from noon to 6 p.m. Thursday.

“So many people are eligible to donate,” said Connie Edwards, drive coordinator. “Only about 5 percent of American people donate that are eligible.”

People can donate blood every 56 days.

Edwards said the blood drive will serve a dual purpose. The Red Cross also will celebrate the 92nd birthday of longtime volunteer Margaret Shirk. Shirk has been a Red Cross volunteer for 45 years. In addition, drawings for trips to Branson, Mo., will be at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.

For more information, call the Red Cross, 842-3550, or Edwards, 841-1020.