The House of Mercy

The House of Mercy (HOME) hosted its second gala Friday, May 10, at The Refuge.

HOME graduate Gary Salzman organized the event. The residents and staff assisted with the preparation of the food, decorations and program.

Executive Director Preston Crow emphasized the core purpose of HOME, noting that it is a Christian Human Development Center built on the foundational scripture “For I was hungry and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me in...” Matthew 25:35 (NIV).

While listening to various testimonies during the event, the residents solidified the fact that the House of Mercy is needed in this area. A list of services offered includes a safe and clean environment, three meals a day, daily Bible classes, Life skills courses, and vocational training among other services. Learn more by visiting HouseOfMercyEnterprises.org. (Photo journal on Page 8) The event organizer recognized the H.O.M.E. Board of directors: Pastor Dan Lunsford, Pastor Harrell Braddock, Martha Green, Mike Green, Hugo Numann, and Preston Crow who also serves as the Executive Director. This board comprises men and women with diverse backgrounds and expertise.

Many people came out to show their support. City Administrator Neal Welch and his wife Jana attended the event along with other dignitaries not pictured.

H.O.M.E. program graduates and current residents shared stories that attest to the importance of having a place like H.O.M.E. in Olney.

Paul McQueen and his wife Anne McQueen conversed and shared laughs with Sally Bernhardt and her husband Herb Bernhardt while anticipating the meal that was prepared and served by H.O.M.E. residents and staff. The highlight of the meal was Smoked Turkey and Beef Brisket.

This group of individuals came out to show their support. Pictured left to right: Larry Meschkat, his wife Kay Meschkat, Kay’s mother, Carla Perry, Leatha Hirsch along with her husband Jim Hirsch and Tony Neal who showed support for his son Kyle.

Pictured left is new graduate Espie Randolph who gave Preston Crow an emotional embrace as Crow presented his certificate of completion.

Pictured right is Kyle Neal who shared his struggles with attendees.