In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mercy Health Foundation – Cincinnati has approved the distribution of up to $640,000 in grants and capital support for COVID-19 expenses that Mercy Health has incurred.
A $200,000 impact grant approved by the foundation will support Mercy Health hospital associates in Cincinnati. It will cover the cost of hotel accommodations that help hospital workers reduce the risk of exposing their families to COVID-19. Additionally, through the grant, managers at each hospital and medical center will have a variety of gift cards from local businesses that they can use to reward associates going above and beyond their normal job duties during this time.
Additionally, and in recognition of the increased costs for supplies and capital needs related to COVID-19, Mercy Health Foundation approved the distribution of up to $440,000 to purchase materials that contribute to the safety of patients and care teams. Funds will go toward the purchase of eight ultraviolet germicidal machines that use ultraviolet light to disinfect and clean rooms in approximately five minutes.
“We are very grateful Mercy Health Foundation - Cincinnati’s thoughtful and generous support. The funds they are distributing will have a significant positive impact on our care teams and our ability to care for patients through this pandemic,” said Mercy Health Cincinnati President Dave Fikse.
“This gift to our hospitals is the direct result of the generosity of our donors. Everyone in our region is facing this pandemic and responding in very personal ways. In such an uncertain time, one certainty is the giving spirit of our community. I’m so thankful that we can apply the gifts we’ve received to such important needs,” said Jon Labbe, President, Mercy Health Foundation – Cincinnati.
Mercy Health Foundation has established a Relief Fund to support needs of the ministry. Donors can direct their gift to assist their local Mercy Health hospital and health care workers in their area. For questions or to make a gift by phone, call (800) 999-2744 or visit https://foundation.mercy.com/covid-19.aspx.
Mercy Health continues to receive generous offers from organizations and community members seeking to donate supplies in response to the COVID-19 supply shortages facing health care systems across the country. If community members have supplies they want donate or are aware of people in the community looking for places to donate, they can email APRush@bshsi.org using the subject line “DONATION” or call 888-383-8000 for information on how to donate.