LIMA, OH (WLIO) - Mercy Health-St. Rita's took the time to thank their staff by welcoming them and their families to an evening full of holiday festivities.
Associates and their kids enjoyed meeting Santa Claus, getting their photos taken with a real reindeer, and fun activities like face painting at their annual Christmas party. The night wrapped up with the lighting of their Christmas tree, which stands at 40 feet tall, has 900 ornaments, and 7,000 lights. Working in healthcare can be fast-paced and stressful, so this decades-long tradition is just one way the hospital gives back to employees for all their hard work.
"I think they're very appreciative. Especially with all of the different activities to do. To get off work and then to be able to bring their families in here and enjoy this tonight and moving into the weekend as we move closer to the holidays. It's a wonderful night for all of us," said Ann Stiles, the Community Affairs Coordinator for Mercy Health-St. Rita's.
"I would say we often think of our coworkers as family, but tonight we get to invite our real families to come meet each other and be in one big celebration," added Beth Keehn, St. Rita's Director of Government and Community Affairs.
Mercy Health hopes that seeing the tree outside brings comfort and Christmas spirit to their patients too.
