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 Yancey
Photo courtesy Tender Mercies
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