May 19, 2008 - In support of the works of the Sisters of Mercy in Webb County, the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Charitable foundation has committed $300,000 to Mercy Ministries of Laredo to assist with the needs of the underserved at two of Mercy’s primary programs.

Mercy Primary Healthcare Clinic, a clinic focused on primary healthcare services uninsured and underinsured patients, will apply a portion of the funds toward the purchase of a new medical mobile van.  Funds also allow Casa de Misericordia, Laredo’s only domestic violence shelter, to meet the budget to complete plans for shelter expansion announced just last month.

“In essence, our mobile unit provides neighborhood-delivered healthcare to people who are unable to come to the clinic,” said Mercy CEO Sister Maria Luisa.  “The van offers breast and cervical cancer screenings, annual physical exams, chronic illness monitoring, and general medical consultations,” she continued.

Mercy’s medical mobile van provides healthcare services to underserved populations in 4 inner-city locations and surrounding rural areas of Webb County.  

“We are indeed blessed by the continued support of the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Foundation,” said Sister Rosemary Welsh, Executive Director of Casa de Misericordia, “for many years, we have been able to count on their support for victims of domestic violence in Laredo.”

Shirley Gonzalez, President of the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Foundation, is honored to be able to assist Mercy Ministries.  “Lupe and Lilia embraced their home and their community,” Gonzalez said.  “It is only fitting that we are able to use our resources and give back to an agency that is dedicated to improving the lives of the residents of Laredo and South Texas .”

Established in 2001, the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Foundation is dedicated to helping with the healthcare and educational needs of the residents of Webb and Zapata Counties.   Since it’s formation, the GLMF has helped over 50 non-profit organizations accomplish their goals of bettering the lives of residents within this region.

“Our collaboration is a win-win for Mercy Ministries and those who are positively affected by their hard work and generosity,” Gonzalez said.  “We are thrilled to be able to assist them with their mission.”

In 2007, Casa de Misericordia sheltered over 700 women and children generated from local outcries.  A catalyst for community action and education, CASA works to free from violence every person crossing its doors through educational programming, active former residents, and collaboration with community agencies throughout Webb County.

“The spirit of the Sisters of Mercy is alive and well among our many philanthropic supporters here in Laredo.  Our programs could not succeed without their trust, their collaboration, and their vision of a better Laredo,” echoed Gloria Canseco, Director of Advancement for Mercy Ministries. 

Sponsored and operated by the Laredo Sisters of Mercy, Mercy Ministries of Laredo and Casa de Misericordia are faith-based community service agencies dedicated to the well-being of the underserved in Laredo and Webb County.  Their combined mission encompasses primary healthcare, domestic violence, nutrition, and social services for all people, but with a special concern for women and children.