ABOUT US
Mother of Mercy House is here to share God’s mercy and love in our community.
Rooted in faith and compassion, we are dedicated to providing support, care, and hope to those in need in Kensington, Philadelphia.
Through our programs and outreach, we strive to be a beacon of light, offering a safe space for healing, growth, and transformation for all who come through our doors.
OUR MISSION
At Mother of Mercy House, we’re driven by a vibrant, hands-on faith that echoes Pope Francis’s vision: true Christians don’t just marvel at their beliefs in quiet reflection or chat about them over a meal. Instead, they step out, embrace their challenges boldly, and hit the streets to share God’s love with those who need it most – the poor, the hurting, the overlooked. Inspired by this call to live the Gospel out loud, our team pours our hearts into serving our neighbors every day. We offer prayer and sacraments, counseling and encouragement, food and clothing, family support, and above all, a steady, welcoming Christian presence – simple, safe, and unwavering – right here in our community.
TWO PRIESTS & A NUN WALK INTO A BAR
Initially founded by two archdiocesan priests and an Immaculate Heart of Mary Sister, Mother of Mercy House started in a former bar at the corner of “G” and Allegheny, in the Kensington section of Philadelphia.
Several areas across the Archdioceses could no longer reasonably support the big buildings and massive properties of the past. This was the catalyst for establishing our ministry. MoMH desired to discover new ways of being a Catholic presence in the communities impacted by this reality. After much consideration, the Kensington neighborhood became a clear choice for this new ministry. Our location was and continues to be established in an area that needs the physical presence of Christ within “walking distance.”
Kensington is rich in history and home to many immigrants. This neighborhood also suffers with poverty, violence, addiction and homelessness. Immediately upon arrival in the community, the team set out to discern the most immediate needs both spiritually and physically among their neighbors. Based on what was learned both on the street and statistically, (this area is the second food hungriest congressional district in the United States), the early focus was establishing a food program. In offering food assistance, a critical need was met while our neighbors were engaged in a meaningful way.
Though our original founders have moved on to new assignments, we are delighted to have Fr. Joe Devlin and Sr. Ann Raymond Welte, IHM on our Board of Directors. Their perspective and guidance to our small, but mighty, team on the ground is greatly valued. We remain committed to meeting our neighbors, both housed and unhoused, where they are in their lives and to evolving and refining our programs and services in ways that most effectively support our community.
ABOUT US
Mother of Mercy House supports the Kensington community, including both outdoor and indoor neighbors facing homelessness, substance use disorder, and economic hardship. Our outreach extends to children and youth through after-school programs and summer camp, giving them a safe place to learn, play, and grow. We also walk alongside families affected by substance use disorder, offering emotional and material support to parents, caregivers, and loved ones. Through food distributions, clothing assistance, and outreach efforts, we strive to ensure that no one in our community is left without support.
TODAYS TEAM IS LEADING THE FUTURE
As our work has evolved, our team has grown over the years since our founding. However, our mission remains steadfastly the same. We are committed to meeting our neighbors where they are in their lives and providing whatever we can to meet their spiritual, physical and emotional needs with God’s mercy. And none of this would be possible without our partners and supporters. We are so truly grateful to the many groups and individuals that join us in this work through their donations, volunteer hours and prayers. You encourage us and ensure the vitality of our ministry. Thank you for being a vital part of our team and allowing us to continue to serve, on the ground, this community we love.