A nonprofit organization that offers housing solutions to help Ocala’s homeless population just broke ground at the site of a former motel this week and officially kicked off construction of a new housing complex that will feature dozens of units for those in need.
A groundbreaking ceremony for Mercy Village was held on Wednesday, December 18, at 3601 W Silver Springs, the site of the new facility.
Representatives from Saving Mercy and Carrfour Supportive Housing, the organizations behind the new project, as well as local officials were on hand for the groundbreaking on Wednesday.
According to the organization, the new development will feature 59 apartment units and 10 duplex units, creating a total of 79 units designed to provide long-term stability for individuals in need.
“Mercy Village will offer a mix of supportive services and affordable housing, aiming to address the critical shortage of permanent housing for those experiencing homelessness or facing housing insecurity,” reads a statement from Saving Mercy. “The new homes will provide residents with the stability they need to rebuild their lives, with integrated support services including case management.”
CarrFour Supportive Housing develops, operates, and manages “innovative housing communities for individuals and families in need,” according to its website.
The groups hope to complete construction of the new facility by the end of next year.
In September, Saving Mercy had to cease operations at its existing motel to demolish the building. At the time, tenants were assisted by the company in finding alternative housing to vacate the property by October 1.
In the statement on its website, Saving Mercy says that throughout the construction of its new facility, the organization will still continue to serve the homeless community through both its Homeless Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Programs.
“We will make every effort to assist our motel residents in relocating and we will continue to serve the homeless community through both our Homeless Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Programs. Please join us in praying for a safe, successful, and speedy process,” reads the statement.
Saving Mercy was founded by parishioners from Blessed Trinity Church, who “shared a vision of helping the homeless.” The organization offers temporary and permanent housing solutions to help individuals and families move towards permanent stability.
Earlier this week, the Ocala City Council voted to table a vote on a proposed sober living facility at a church in southeast Ocala.
Just weeks before Ocala-News.com reported on Saving Mercy’s new facility, Wear Gloves, Inc,. another local organization that helps residents in need, announced that it had purchased a 60-bed shelter. The organization is currently working to renovate the facility into Dignity House, a new shelter that will provide a variety of services to struggling residents.
For more information on the organization or to make a donation, visit Saving Mercy online or send your donation to PO Box 771736, Ocala, FL, 34477.
