Blessings Come in All Shapes, Sizes and Bags at Mercy

For the second year in a row, volunteers from Mercy gathered to assemble blessing bags for the local homeless population.

Co-workers started this project last year as they saw an increased need within the community due to higher numbers of homeless patients seeking medical attention. Deeply touched by the plight of this group, they wanted to find a way to provide much needed help and shine the light of kindness and hope in their lives. 

Last year, co-workers were able to put together 250 blessing bags, containing items such as personal care, laundry soap and snacks that were donated to six area shelters. This year, the program was expanded to the communities of Joplin, Lebanon and Ft. Scott, with donation sites designated at several locations. Overall, 650 blessing bags were created, allowing co-workers to make donations to 12 different shelters. Additionally, several toys were donated to provide help and brighten Christmas for several struggling families. 

Donations were made to the following locations: 

• Salvation Army, Springfield
• Rare Breed, Springfield
• Hearts for the Homeless, Springfield
• Harmony House, Springfield
• Soul’s Harbor, Joplin
• Watered Gardens, Joplin
• Salvation Army, Joplin
• Ministers of Fire, Lebanon
• Pregnancy Support Center, Lebanon
• COPE house, Lebanon
• The Beacon, Fort Scott
• Fort Scott Compassionate Ministries & Outreach Center, Fort Scott