Largest single donation received for new housing program

Mercy Center for Women’s Executive Director Jennie Hagerty and Sister JoAnne Courneen of the Sisters of Mercy were on hand to accept a $535,000 check, the largest single corporate donation in the nonprofit’s 28 year history, from Sumi James-Black, Calypso owner. Through the Neighborhood Assistance Program, the funds will be used to transform the former Holy Rosary School into the Mercy Anchor Community Center. The Center will house 13 two-bedroom apartments, Dress for Success, food pantry, thrift store, community room, library, technology hub, and collaborative space for AHN Saint Vincent and Safe Harbor Behavioral Health. The 39,000 square-foot project was funded through a capital campaign initiative which exceeded a $2.5 million goal.

L-R: Sumi James-Black, Calypso owner; Sister JoAnne Courneen; Jennie Hagerty, MCW Executive Director