For Immediate Release

January 19, 2004

Mercy Memorial Auxiliary Donates First Aid Kits

Ardmore - Volunteers with the Mercy Memorial Auxiliary plan to donate first aid kits to area schools this month.

"The idea of donating first aid kits to the schools came about as we started discussing what we could do to become more involved in the community," said Elaine Richardson, auxiliary member. "We have a strong department within the hospital but our members felt like it was time to reach out even more to the community."

Over the next several weeks, 25 different schools including Ardmore Middle School, Franklin, Greenville, Healdton, Lincoln, Lone Grove, Marietta, Plainview, Thackerville and Will Rogers, will receive kits. The packs are equipped with everything from Band-Aids to anti-bacterial ointment to gauze pads.

Last year the auxiliary provided the Franklin School District with a years worth of back to school supplies for children in need. This spring the group plans to kick off the WHALE program (We Have A Little Emergency), which will provide stickers with a child's health information, name and phone numbers to be placed on car seats in case of an accident where information is not readily available from a parent or guardian. The auxiliary will be working hand in hand with local police, fire and emergency responders to coordinate the WHALE program.

"Community outreach is an important part of our service to others," said Richardson. "Not only does it benefit those in need but there is a special blessing in it for us as well."

If you are interested in joining the volunteers at Mercy Memorial, contact Tobi Ervin, at 220-6635.

Mercy Memorial Health Center is a member of Mercy Health System of Oklahoma and the Sisters of Mercy Health System-St. Louis.

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