Our History
House of Mercy was founded in 1985 by Sister Grace Miller, a tireless advocate for Rochester’s unhoused community. Seeing the urgent need for shelter and support, she opened a small house on Central Park with the help of the Sisters of Mercy. From the very first day, people flooded in, seeking not only a safe place to sleep but also compassion, advocacy, and a path forward.
In 2016, House of Mercy moved into a larger, modern facility on Ormond Street, allowing us to expand our services and create a safer, more efficient, and more comfortable space for those in need. With increased capacity, improved security, and dedicated areas for meals, social services, and personal care, this building ensures we can serve more people with dignity and respect.
What We Do
We are committed to providing essential services with radical compassion, ensuring that everyone in need has access to comprehensive support:
- Emergency Shelter: A 76-bed facility offering a safe, clean place to sleep.
- Food Assistance: Our pantry is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, providing essential groceries.
- Daily Meals: We serve three nutritious meals daily, with snacks and coffee/tea available throughout the day.
- Clothing & Basic Needs: Free clothing, hygiene products, and survival essentials.
- Social Services: Dedicated staff assist guests in setting and achieving goals for independent living, connecting them with necessary resources.
- Emergency Financial Assistance: Support for urgent needs like utility bills, security deposits, IDs, and funeral expenses.
- Advocacy & Outreach: Assisting guests in navigating social services, medical care, and legal challenges.
- Spirituality & Community: We honor each person’s journey, offering optional spiritual services for those who seek strength in faith