Our History
More than four decades ago, the Sisters of Mercy of Connecticut responded to a growing crisis—homelessness. Their answer was the creation of St. Elizabeth House, a safe haven for those without shelter, and The Friendship Center, offering food, basic supplies, and a sense of community.
Founded in 1983, Mercy Housing & Shelter has grown far beyond its roots. Today, we operate nine unique programs across six locations, supporting individuals and families as they move from homelessness to stability and independence. Our mission goes beyond housing—we provide the tools, resources, and support people need to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Our Mission
Mercy Housing and Shelter Corporation promotes independence and dignity by providing housing assistance and supportive services to those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Mercy creates pathways toward self-sufficiency and advocates for systemic change to end homelessness.
Mercy Core Values: Respect, Compassion, Self-Determination
Respect – Treating individuals with dignity, consideration and understanding
Compassion – Deep empathy and concern for the suffering of others, coupled with a desire to alleviate that suffering. Support over shame
Self-Determination – Emphasizes the importance of individuals setting goals, making their own choices and taking responsibility for their lives.
Our Impact
Supporting Mercy Housing and Shelter Corporation makes a difference in the lives of the men, women, and children our organization serves. In Fiscal Year 2025, we accomplished the following with your help:
- 77,863 nutritious meals were served to residents of St. Elizabeth House and visitors to the Friendship Center.
- 205 people gained a safe and stable place to live through our Permanent Supportive Housing program.
- 165 people accessed safe housing and learned skills to develop independence through our Residential programs.
- 790 people avoided homelessness by working with our Shelter Diversion program.
- 401 people in Greater Hartford were served in partnership with the Greater Hartford Coordinated Access Network.
- 389 people in Greater Middletown were served in partnership with the Middletown-Meriden-Wallingford Coordinated Access Network.
- 3,833 people were served through Mercy Housing’s Diversion HUBS in Hartford and Middletown.
- 114 people quickly found and maintained appropriate housing after experiencing literal homelessness through our Rapid Rehousing Program.
See how we change lives in Greater Hartford and Middletown – read our Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report.
Your Journey Starts Here
Click the button below to learn more about Mercy Housing and Shelter Corporation’s programs and services, current events, how to donate or volunteer, and more!