Mercy Housing and Shelter in Hartford, CT, an MFB New England nonprofit partner, is working to "break the cycle of homelessness." The problem is tackled with five different approaches. Those five programs are:
St. Elizabeth House - This is a 40-bed residence for people with HIV/AIDS, women in substance abuse recovery, adults recovering from mental health crises, and veterans.
The Supportive Housing Program - It serves about 100 people, helping the chronically homeless learn daily living skills.
The Residence at St. Mary's - 12 supervised apartments for people with mental health disabilities.
Shelter Diversion - This program aims to promote a "housing first" approach and "diverting people from homelessness by connecting them with resources. This program has helped over 3,100 homeless people by advocating on their behalf.
The Friendship Center - This day shelter and soup kitchen is open five days a week and provides breakfast and lunch. Volunteers prepare the food and those same volunteers maintain a food pantry on site.
Clients have access to showers, personal care items, and clean clothing at Friendship Center. It's where clients like Will R. go to "stay out of trouble." Learn more about Will here.
Mercy Housing and Shelter is also affiliated with My Sisters' Place, which provides women and children care options for permanent, safe, and affordable housing. The staff helps participants make better decisions, encouraging independence and stability.
"We're extremely grateful to Midwest Food Bank New England," says Christina Lessard of Mercy Housing and Shelter. "It makes a huge difference in our operating expenses, allowing us to do more."
