Mercy Serves is an innovative program made possible by your support. The program focuses on matching vulnerable patients with available services.

Briearra Kennedy is part of Mercy Serves. The program is a partnership with AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service. Thanks to your gift, Brierra is able to work with patients at Mercy Health. She specializes in patient education, substance use risk screening and emotional support. She also provides referrals for treatment and social services. 

“We interact with patients on a more informal level,” explains Briearra. “We're making connections, making the patient feel they have an advocate. And while we're getting to know them, we are asking those key questions.”

“I’m grateful for this program. It shows me that what I want to do in the future can help people, and I can make a difference.”

Briearra connects patients to the support they need. Whether it’s locating a treatment facility to combat addiction or providing a hot meal. Her goal is always the same; do what's best for her patients. 

“If people don't have access to food or safe housing, the stress can make them more likely to use substances,” she says, as example.

Briearra is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati. She has a degree in public health and is very glad to be part of Mercy Serves. 

“It’s been a humbling experience,” she says. “It outlines the importance of being an advocate for people and the many public health issues they face.”