History

Mercy Center for Women (MCW) was founded by the Sisters of Mercy in January 1994 to provide long term (up to 1 year) transitional housing and support services to homeless women with or without children.

MCW was founded by combining the services of two agencies, Hope House, a transitional housing facility for women and children, and Grass Roots Opportunities for Women, an advocacy center. MCW is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

• Provide transitional housing for homeless women and their children
• Provide an environment that is conducive to healing, recovery, and growth
• Provide support and opportunities for women, including our residents and those from the community
• Network with other agencies and programs to better serve the needs of women
• Cultivate leadership among women to benefit them

Mercy Center for Women is housed in a former convent built in 1960, that has 17 bedrooms and can accommodate 27-34 residents at any given time.

The facility is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is in a residential area close to shopping and public transportation. The facility includes an education room, living room, laundry facilities, kitchen and dining areas and a large, fenced-in back yard.

MCW residents have a private bedroom that they share with their children.

Residents take an active part in the maintenance and day-to-day operation of the house and are expected to complete daily chores and care for their bedroom and their family’s laundry. Residents prepare evening meals on a rotating basis. Attendance at house meetings, where staff and residents exchange ideas about house activities, is mandatory.