Their residential support for women is a 31-bed residence for single women and mothers with young children who are in recovery. With the goal of continued recovery and transition to more independent living situations, the women meet weekly with professional case managers to identify and address the root causes of their homelessness. Residents are referred to appropriate off-site treatment programs and support groups, while receiving on-site life skills, parenting support and social services support.

Case managers complete thorough assessments of each resident, helping them to establish a plan of action to maintain their recovery and a transition to stable housing. Case managers connect residents to services and resources, monitor their access to these services, and help residents to adjust to the structured lifestyle of Mercy and life after discharge.

Mothers residing at Mercy regardless of whether or not they have custody of their children are offered regular parenting education and support services as they work towards reunification. Family-oriented activities are offered for mothers and their children to promote mother-child bonding and provide fun filled activities for families. Case managers assist each mother in accessing community resources such as pre-natal care, psychological school testing, child care, school registration, and summer programs.

Onsite child care is provided so mothers can have respite on-site workshops and groups. Parenting Workshops are facilitated by parent educators weekly to provide new skills and resources to parents. Assistance is also provided to mothers at meal time, a particularly stressful period of the day, to lend support and encourage positive interaction between mothers and children.

Life skills are provided through residential peer meetings, sobriety focused peer meetings, and parenting workshops. Topics include money management, household management, health and nutrition, and job readiness skills. All of these help to build the women’s self-esteem and strengthen them as they work on their recovery and their goals of self-sufficiency.

Drug and Alcohol support groups are provided several times a week on site for all residents. The women also attend drug and alcohol groups outside of Mercy and at their outpatient treatment facilities.

Contact:
(215) 545-5153
mercyhospice@chs-adphila.org
https://www.mercyhospicephilly.org/
334 South 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107-5916