M.E.R.C.Y. Communities began helping homeless mothers and their children 15 years ago in Springfield. The work involved providing transitional and permanent housing, along with other services.
Fundraising and grants has helped cover costs. But this year, word came that a federal HUD grant won't be renewed. And unless that money is recouped, some services will be scaled back or eliminated.
"The money that goes to transitional housing is very important. And HUD has decided that this is not as important of an area for them. They would rather see people rapidly re-housed. They want to see people housed, but not necessarily in a transitional setting where they move on," said Deb Stonikas, Executive Director of M.ER.C.Y.
"There are different philosophies, but transitional housing has worked for 15 years for M.E.R.C.Y. Communities. We've had great success with our programs and we are really wanting to continue in this work," she added.
Transitional housing is located in the Enos Park Neighborhood, on 19th Street near South Grand Avenue.
The loss of the grant has put a new emphasis on an annual fundraiser. The Gala Event will take place October 18 at 6 p.m. at Christ The King Parish Hall, 1930 Barberry Drive, Springfield. Food, music and a live auction will be part of the evening.
"There will be some memorable sharing of what M.E.R.C.Y. has done," Sister Marilyn Runkel said.
