July 19, 2020

Three sister organizations continue annual tradition of spreading mercy in the Cedar Rapids community

Sister organizations Mount Mercy University, the Catherine McAuley Center and Mercy Medical Center are continuing the tradition of spreading mercy in our community. Circle the City with Mercy is a one-day community service project with volunteers from each organization working toward a common cause. This year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the organizations will work on the project simultaneously, each at their own locations, on Wednesday, July 22. 

Now in its third year, the Circle the City with Mercy partners look for a unique community service project each year to demonstrate their ongoing commitment to the community. The project marks the anniversary of the Sisters of Mercy’s arrival in Cedar Rapids in July 1875. 

This year, beginning at 11 a.m. on July 22, team members at each of the three organizations will put together hygiene kits to be donated to the HACAP Food Reservoir. The hygiene kits will be shared with local food pantries to give to clients in need. 

“Personal care items are hard to find for many people in need,” said Kim Guardado, HACAP food reservoir director. “HACAP is thrilled to partner with Circle the City to provide much needed items for families and make our community a better place for all.” 

Circle the City with Mercy volunteers are committed to putting together 1,400 hygiene kits.

Prior to the kit assembly, participants will be connected through a Zoom call for a brief blessing and a message about HACAP’s work and mission in the community. 

This event will be conducted in adherence with social distancing guidelines and with additional precautions in place to ensure the safety and health of volunteers.