Mother and daughter at Mercy Othello Plaza

Collaboration is in Our DNA

Thirty years ago, Mercy Housing Northwest’s founding communities in Washington State asked themselves, “Who is being stamped insignificant in our society? What can we do about it?”

We focused on the increasing numbers of families with children who were homeless and their needs for affordable housing with services, including daycare, healthcare, education, job training, and life skills. To this day, Mercy Housing Northwest remains dedicated to creating homes and communities where families are empowered to thrive.

It’s our belief that housing with services is the way, not the end, to provide for people in need. For those who collaborate with us in housing justice work and those who will join in the future, we ask you not to be overwhelmed by the need. Instead, stay invested in the full development of each person, family, and neighbor. Each person’s journey will be different.

The gift of what we started is all the people who joined us along the way — the different organizations, different churches, and people with diverse backgrounds. We believe our initial role was to plant the seed, provide a vision for the future and empower others to join us in continuing the mission. We remain active on the Mercy Housing Northwest board and volunteer daily in MHNW housing communities, where we support the growth and vision of this mission.

From the beginning, Women Religious have led, inspired and supported this housing ministry. Along the way, we have been joined by committed board members, dedicated lay partners, and collaborative staff. They have honored our vision and bring enormous value that will carry on our legacy. We have done just what our founding executive director said, “Live with the risk. Take on projects that are challenging and made better with partnerships.”

Looking to the future, it is the hope of the Sisters that Mercy Housing Northwest and all our collaborators will continue to stand for equity in housing, education, and employment. Remember our roots and sustain our vision with humility.

Sister Charlotte Davenport, CSJP
Sister Charlotte Davenport, CSJP

Sister Jo Ann Showalter, SP
Sister Jo Ann Showalter, SP

Sister Judy Byron, OP
Sister Judy Byron, OP

Sister Georgia Yianakulis, SNJM
Sister Georgia Yianakulis, SNJM

Sister Kathleen Reilly, OP
Sister Kathleen Reilly, OP