Last February, Mercy Community Health Foundation hosted the 15th Mercy Crystal Gala. This year, things are shaping up very differently...we invite you to stay home, stay safe, and give generously to Mercy's No-Gala Gala - a 10 day, online charity fundraiser February 18 - 28. This year's non event is a no frills way to show support for Ascension Via Christi Hospital Manhattan and our frontline healthcare workers.

This is a critical time - our healthcare system has been challenged with an unprecedented task and our healthcare team is performing heroic feats. More than ever before, we understand the importance of our local full-service hospital being well-equipped and staffed to save lives.

The Ascension Via Christi Manhattan hospital staff has been instrumental in treating Covid-19 patients since the pandemic began. Caring for these patients has required an astonishing allocation of personnel and financial resources. For example, the cost for 1 week of isolation gowns for hospital staff is $5,000 and the cost for 2 weeks of Covid-19 lab tests is a whopping $25,000! To date, Mercy Community Health Foundation has allocated more than $300,000 toward pandemic-related expenses at Ascension Via Christi Manhattan.

Despite the optimism of a Covid-19 vaccine, the future of healthcare is ever evolving. Tomorrow will bring new discoveries and even better technology. State-of-the-art equipment, innovative programs, and training are key to excellent patient outcomes. With your financial support, we can provide more care to more people.

Donations to the Mercy No-Gala Gala will stay local and benefit Ascension Via Christi Hospital Manhattan. With the phenomenal support of Memorial Hospital Association, Jack Goldstein Charitable Trust, Mark and Ann Knackendoffel, The Trust Company, and SPS Companies, Inc., a total of $41,000 in matching funds are on the table. The fundraising goal for Mercy's No-Gala Gala is $90,000.

We plan to see you in person in 2022.