August 20, 2021 3:30 a.m.

The community has the opportunity to welcome and show support for the Oregon National Guard as they come to assist healthcare workers at CHI Mercy Medical Center.

Information from Mercy said that 75 members of the Guard will be arriving. Mercy said its staff has been under great strain as COVID-19 admissions have surged in the past several weeks. On top of this a large number of healthcare workers are out sick as well, adding to the difficult situation. Mercy staff said the help from the Guard is very timely and much appreciated.

National Guard members will be meeting at the former Kmart parking lot on Monday morning at 8:00 a.m. before going to the hospital. Residents can go by and express their thanks at that time.