Tender Mercies gives hope to homeless
When Harold lived on the streets of Cincinnati, he dreamed of a childhood he never had. One with presents under the tree and a smiling Santa bursting with holiday cheer. After illness tore apart his professional life and his family, those dreams never seemed further away from reality. At 42, Harold found help at Tender Mercies, a nonprofit that provides transitional, permanent and quick access housing, as well as outreach and resource coordination for people with mental illness. "More than anything else, Tender Mercies has given me back my dignity and self-respect," says Harold, who now has his own apartment and his own truck. He also works at Crayons to Computers, the local nonprofit that provides resources to area teachers.Born of an effort to do just that, Tender Mercies has come a long way since its founding in 1985. Initially, the organization, which was formed by three clergymen, focused on providing safe housing. Two women with mental illness who had been living in temporary housing had been attacked; one of them was killed. After that act of violence, Tender Mercies took shape. Now the organization provides housing in six buildings, five of which are more than 100 years old. Workers' outreach efforts spill into the streets to connect those with mental illness with resources and opportunities to live safe and productive lives. Every year, fundraising accounts for a major part of the nonprofit's funding. Every year, staff works to raise $500,000 just to cover the gaps in government and grant funds that allow programs to continue. And in cases like Harold's, the success stories offer proof that building security and self-confidence has a wide range of benefits. Harold's current volunteerism includes a turn playing Santa for children who are hungry or living on the streets. Do Good:• Find the latest news. Friend Tender Mercies on Facebook.• Supply snacks. The Tender Mercies Snack Shack, run by residents, can always use crackers, coffee, microwaveable foods and more. • Make a donation. Check to see if your employer will match your tax-deductible gift.By Elissa YanceyPhoto courtesy Tender Mercies
