Early in 2010, after hearing repeated pleas for services for displaced families in Clay County, leaders of Mercy Support Services decided to step out in faith to make provision for them. They began raising funds from local churches and compassionate-hearted individuals to accommodate homeless families in local hotels.

Our Self-Sufficiency Program is designed to assist displaced families in Clay County with housing and support while on their journey to becoming self-sufficient.  Mercy Support Services is not a homeless shelter.  This Program offers a minimum of 90 days and up to 6 months of supportive housing while actively seeking additional income, education, childcare, mental well-being and other barriers to being independent.  Clients will receive weekly one-on-one Care Coaching and online Financial Coaching to provide the necessary tools and guidance, in a firm but loving way, for a confident and independent future.  Clients will be expected to follow the Program Rules and Guidelines and remain in compliance to continue services.

When Mary and her two children came to us, they had lost hope in the system. Mary and her younger child suffered with disabilities, and her older child, having been forced into the role of caregiver, had no time to find work. Medical bills began piling up and they were soon delinquent on their rent. Facing eviction, they had lost hope…

…and then there was John and his family. Despite their tireless efforts, neither John nor his wife could secure employment in order to support their two children. John had lost hope in his ability to take care of his family…

…until they found us.  Mercy Support Services RESTORES HOPE!  Our Care and Financial Coaches worked closely with these families to develop a plan to guide them to self-sufficiency. We are pleased to report that the families of both John and Casey are now self-sufficient. While there is still work to be done, Mary and her family now have the support they need to get back on their feet.  Hope has been restored!