Access to Medical Services
Richmond Community Hospital and Bon Secours Mercy Health Global Ministries Support International Patient Reunion
After providing two years of compassionate care to an elderly patient with complex medical needs, Richmond Community Hospital and Bon Secours Mercy Health Global Ministries helped ensure his safe return to France and a reunion with his family.
Global Ministries extends the compassionate ministry of Jesus by supporting those who are poor, vulnerable, or in need of specialized care. The patient had a history of stroke, paraplegia, contractures, and dementia. Because his health remained fragile, Global Ministries worked with Maisons du Bon Secours in Vendome, France, to temporarily care for him until he could transition to a long-term facility near his family in Paris.
Learn more about his care and the reach of our global ministry in the video Mamadi’s Story.
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Richmond Community Hospital Installs New Smart Beds The Hercules Patient Repositioner allows caregivers to reposition patients safely and comfortably, reducing the risk of injury and supporting patient dignity. This investment reflects our commitment to compassionate, innovative care for the Richmond community. |
Wellness and Prevention
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Gospel Fest 2025 Despite thunderstorms outside, praise continued inside for this year’s Annual Gospel Fest. Guests enjoyed food from vendors including Traditionz, LaBete, Cason’s Funnel Cake, Mobile Yum Yum, and a custom doodle station. Performances by Mount Carmel Baptist Church Children’s Choir, VCU Black Awakening Choir, and Praise 104.7’s Sheilah Belle “The Belle” kept spirits high. Bon Secours partnered with Shiloh Baptist Church to accept clothing donations, and the I.V.N.A. Wellness team offered free flu shots. |
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RVA East End Music Festival 2025 Bon Secours served as the lead sponsor for the Annual RVA East End Music Festival again this year. The festival raises funds to support arts programs in Richmond Public Schools in the East End. |
Community Partnerships
Richmond Community Hospital Hosts School Supply Drive Benefitting Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School
Richmond Community Hospital associates donated school supplies to Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School in honor of Humility of Mary Day. Supplies were delivered on August 13 ahead of the new school year. We are proud to continue our partnership with MLK Middle School and wish them a successful year.
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Third Annual Healthcare Explorer’s Camp This summer, Boys and Girls Club students participated in the third annual Bon Secours Healthcare Explorer’s Camp. Facilitated by Bon Secours associates, the program introduces youth to healthcare careers through hands-on learning experiences. |
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Her Table Her Budget Her Table Her Budget is a four-week program that empowers women from underserved communities through culinary and financial skills. The pilot initiative focuses on health, financial stability, and food security. This program aims to serve 10 women, including those who identify as low-income, justice-involved, trauma survivors, or heads of households. |
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RVA C.O.O.K.S. RVA C.O.O.K.S. is a free, eight-week culinary program that addresses the root causes of youth violence. The program sparks culinary interest and teaches skills that lead to success beyond the kitchen. The first class was held on September 16, 2025. |
Community Cooking Class
On September 18, 12 participants attended a community cooking class focused on healthy, plant-forward meals. Together, they prepared Chickpea and Cauliflower Tacos with Red Cabbage Slaw. Participants practiced hands-on cooking, tasting, and exploring ways to include more plant-based ingredients in everyday meals.
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Advanced Small Business Boot Camp The Sarah Garland Jones Center launched the first Advanced Small Business Boot Camp this quarter. This free, five-week program, led with Coach Charese Chambers of Financial Fancy LLC, helps business owners grow and scale their businesses. Curriculum included: |
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S.E.E.D. Grant Applications The 15th year of the S.E.E.D. (Supporting East End Entrepreneurship Development) small business grant program is underway. In partnership with InUnison, the program has invested over $1 million in businesses within Church Hill and Fulton. This year, the program expanded to include Shockoe Bottom and received 24 applications, the largest in its history. Judges will review presentations in October to select winners from the $100,000 pool. |
RCH Protective Services – Program of Distinction
Richmond Community Hospital’s security department earned the IAHSS Program of Distinction, awarded to departments meeting high standards in officer and leadership certification. To qualify, 70% of officers must hold Basic, Advanced, or Supervisor certification. RCH exceeds this with 100% certified officers, and the director holds a Certified Healthcare Protection
Training and Recruitment
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Office of Community Wealth Building Open House On September 4, Bon Secours participated in the OCWB Open House. Community members explored resources, programs, and career possibilities while connecting with employers and learning about education and training opportunities. |
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RCH Continues Partnership with Cristo Rey Richmond High School Richmond Community Hospital continues its partnership with Cristo Rey Richmond High School’s Corporate Work Study Program. Now in its third year, the program provides students with workplace experience and growth opportunities, fostering interest in healthcare careers. |
Richmond Community Hospital Welcomes Volunteers through Bon Secours Volunteer Ministry
Three new Bon Secours Volunteer Ministry (BSVM) participants began their year of service in September 2025. Volunteers serve at Richmond Community Hospital and Cristo Rey Richmond High School, developing professionally, personally, and spiritually. BSVM provides housing, health insurance, transportation, a modest monthly stipend, and an AmeriCorps Education Award.