| Here in San Bernardino County, Home Builders Care |
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by In the challenging economy we all are facing, the building industry has been hit exceptionally hard. Through all of the industry’s setbacks, it has risen to the challenge to use its skills and resources to build housing for non-profit organizations. These are specific organizations that provide aid and shelter to homeless families and individuals. The successful completion of Veronica’s Home of Mercy II, a 15,000 square feet long-term transitional home for homeless women and their children, is a star example of the old saying attributed to football coach Knute Rockne – "When the going gets tough, the tough get going." HomeAid Inland Empire, a non-profit organization established under the auspices of the Baldy View, Desert and Riverside Chapters of the Building Industry Association of Southern California along with Crestwood Communities have led development and construction of a new facility for Mary’s Mercy Center. The desperately needed expansion, Veronica’s Home of Mercy II is an exceptional endeavor. When the project faced a tremendous financial hurdle, the strong team in place didn’t give up. They worked harder to complete the build. Their dedication was contagious and their example of commitment persuaded other organizations to join this worthy effort.The city of San Bernardino, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, and the Weingart Foundation are a sample of the major financial contributors. In addition, more than 50 trade partners committed resources and their skills to build a facility that would provide a safe and secure place for homeless mothers and their children to rebuild their lives and escape the vicious cycle of homelessness. Mary’s Mercy Center was established in 1987 and created Mary’s Table a congregate feeding program for the poor and homeless in our community. The program has grown to be open six days a week monthly serving approximately 7,000 meals. From humble beginnings Mary’s Mercy Center added: Saint Martin de Porres Emergency Food Bag Program which monthly gives food bags to an estimated 1,200 families; Saint Joseph’s Clothes Closet distributes free clothing to men, women and children; shower facilities are opened four days a week monthly serving approximately 340 people; and Mary’s Children Program gives essential baby items (diapers, formula, baby food, etc.) to families in crisis. Mary’s Mercy Center founder, Father Mike Barry wanted to address more than the immediate emergency needs. He wanted to provide life changing resources. In 1995, Veronica’s Home of Mercy was launched to provide a home for pregnant adults and their children. The 40 bed facility provided a sanctuary for women breaking away from substance abuse, domestic violence and/or homelessness. Women who had been hurt, rejected or mistreated now were given the resources and support to re-establish their lives and to become productive independent citizens of our community. The need continues to grow. During Mary’s Mercy Center’s 2008-2009 fiscal year they received more than 450 calls from homeless women in need and they had to turn them away. Data from these calls showed cumulatively the women had more than 500 children, 44 percent were children five years old and younger. Facts like these drove HomeAid, Crestwood Communities and the entire team of supporters to fight on to complete Veronica’s Home of Mercy II. The 80 bed facility is now almost complete and includes a fully–equipped professional kitchen, dining room, meeting/classroom spaces, child care facility and counseling/administrative offices. When Veronica’s Home of Mercy II is formally dedicated on December 8, 2009, a united team of supporters can stand proud of their hard work, dedication and strength to persevere. Their efforts are changing lives now and for many years into the future. Homelessness is a complex issue that not just one entity can successfully address. It takes multiple diverse organizations united as a team to bring their numerous skills and resources together to fight homelessness. Mary’s Mercy Center and HomeAid Inland Empire invite you join their efforts. For volunteer and support opportunities go to www.marysmercycenter.org and www.homeaidie.org *****
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