Mission Statement

Mercy Center, founded by the Sisters of Mercy, provides programs and services that empower, enrich and educate people facing socio-economic challenges to realize their full potential, with a special emphasis on women and children.

Vision Statement

We encourage families to think differently about themselves and the world around them. We make the community an empowered place, marked with dignity and respect, by offering comprehensive services that support the emotional, physical and financial well-being of the individuals we are privileged to serve.

In 1831, Catherine McAuley founded the Sisters of Mercy in Dublin, Ireland. Now, as then, the primary mission of the order is to provide emergency support and assistance for the economically disadvantaged with an emphasis on quality education for the less fortunate.

For more than 170 years, the Sisters of Mercy have served the poor and disadvantaged. The problems of 18th century Dublin – homelessness, hunger, healthcare, education – are not much different from the problems facing 21st century Asbury Park.

In 1986, the Sisters of Mercy purchased and renovated 1106 Main Street and incorporated under the title of Mercy Center. In 1991, the Sisters of Mercy purchased the adjacent property and after complete renovation, the building now has a very large food pantry, kitchen and front space for offices and group meetings. Our clients can now come to a clean, safe and quiet environment.

Each day we witness lives being changed with kindness, compassion and understanding from our staff and volunteers. We are committed to helping children, families and individuals overcome burdens and obstacles within an environment marked by dignity and justice.

Mercy Center is a part of the community, offering programs and services to help children, families and individuals live a better life.

Nicole Berry

Mary Catherine Cuff, Vice Chair

Maureen Domal

Laurence Downes

Eugene Garb

Sister Rosemary Jeffries

Richard Jursca

Dana Lawrence ’04

Linda Leasor

Sister Mary Louise Miller

Anaika Napolean ’15

Gerald Radke

Mary Beth Radke, Chair

Lu-Ann Russell

Thomas Villane

Sister Carol Ann Henry