PROGRAMS & SERVICES
Mercy Hospice offers a range of residential services to assist homeless women in recovery, with the mission of alleviating the poverty and family instability caused by serious addictions, associated trauma and mental health issues. Mercy Hospice fulfills an essential ministry of the Church by:
- reducing poverty
- restoring and strengthening families
- promoting the integral health and well-being of those struggling to break the bonds of addiction
Residential Support for Women
A 31-bed residence for single women and mothers with young children who are in recovery. Mercy Hospice provides a safe, supportive, sober environment for all the women who walk through our doors. With the goal of continued recovery and transition to more independent living situations, the women meet weekly with professional case managers to identify and address the root causes of their homelessness. Residents are referred to appropriate off-site treatment programs and support groups, while receiving on-site life skills, parenting support and and social services support.
On-Site Services
Case Management
Intensive case management services are provided by 2 case managers to residents. Case managers complete thorough assessments of each resident, helping them to establish a plan of action to maintain their recovery and a transition to stable housing. Case managers connect residents to services and resources, monitor their access to these services, and help residents to adjust to the structured lifestyle of Mercy and life after discharge.
Parenting
Mothers residing at Mercy regardless of whether or not they have custody of their children are offered regular parenting education and support services as they works towards reunification. Family-oriented activities are offered for mothers and their children to promote mother-child bonding and provide fun filled activities for families. Case Managers assist each mother in accessing community resources such as pre-natal care, psychological school testing, child care, school registration, and summer programs. The Strengthening Families Protective Factors approach is utilized in working with the mothers. Pregnancy services are also provided to expectant mothers with the focus being on prenatal care and a healthy pregnancy for mother and child.
Child Care
Onsite child care is provided so mothers can have respite on-site workshops and groups. Parenting Workshops are facilitated by parent educators weekly to provide new skills and resources to parents. Assistance is also provided to mothers at meal time, a particularly stressful period of the day, to lend support and encourage positive interaction between mothers and children.
Life Skills
Life skills are provided through residential peer meeting, sobriety focused peer meeting, and parenting workshops. Topics include money management, household management, health and nutrition, and job readiness skills. All of these help to build the women’s self-esteem and strengthen them as they work on their recovery and their goals of self-sufficiency.
D&A Support
Drug and Alcohol support groups are provided several times a week on site for all residents. The women also attend drug and alcohol groups outside of Mercy and at their outpatient treatment facilities.