LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) - Mercy Health Saint Rita's employees and volunteers are putting down money to dress down and benefit three local nonprofit organizations.
As part of St. Rita's Community Cares program, employees and volunteers were able to make a donation to wear street clothes on Fridays. Their desire to dress down and help the community was seen today as $6,000 was donated.
Spread the Love, Warriors Way and the Silver Birch Foundation each received $2,000 toward their missions. The Community Cares program started during the pandemic to raise the spirits of everyone.
"It's very rewarding to know that we've been able to continue this and people are just as excited today about supporting these organizations as they were back in 2020," said Janice Ball, vice president of outreach and volunteer auxiliary.
"The funds we get here today will go towards general funding to help keep the veterans coming through the door, keep the kids coming out for youth archery, to keep the kids coming for the youth ornament making classes this December," said David Bates, founder of Warriors Way.
"That money can go to help older adults that have been victims of crime that sometimes fall through the cracks. So we're able to help that many more people," said Jolene Highley, AAA3 director of engagement and public affairs.
"We're gathering money right now to replace our van, which is very important. Our van has been real steady for us, but it's 26 years old and it's time for a replacement van," said Laurie Camper, program director of Spread the Love.
If you would like to help with any of these organizations, you can find them and learn more about their missions at their websites.
