Williamsburg House of Mercy

Williamsburg House of Mercy has been a cornerstone of compassion and action in Greater Williamsburg since 1979 founded by Sister Berenice Eltz of the Sisters of Mercy. What began as a small, volunteer-led outreach has grown into the region’s most comprehensive provider of outreach, food security, day shelter, and pregnancy support — recognized for both the breadth of our services and the depth of our impact.

Williamsburg House of Mercy exists to meet people where they are — in crisis, in transition, or on the edge — and walk alongside them toward stability. We offer food, shelter, and compassionate support without judgment, removing barriers and restoring dignity so every neighbor has the chance to build a secure, self-sufficient future.

A community where no neighbor is invisible, no family is without a safe place to sleep, and no child goes to bed hungry. We envision a Greater Williamsburg that measures its strength by how it treats the most vulnerable — a place where dignity is non-negotiable, help is within reach, and stability is the norm, not the exception.

Our mission focus areas are on Food Insecurity, Outreach Financial Assistance, Harbor Day Shelter, and the Hope Pregnancy Center. 

Our Food Insecurity Mission offers a one-day a week USDA food distribution and one-day a week food pantry distribution. Each weekday from 12-1, our Community Kitchen distributes an average of 100 lunches to our community and clients. 

 Through our Outreach Mission, we offer utility assistance, eviction assistance, and supportive services to those struggling to maintain housing, regain stability, and/or to prevent homelessness. 

Our Harbor Day Shelter is Greater Williamsburg’s only day shelter offering weekday respite to those experiencing homelessness. 

The HOPE Pregnancy Center offers material support for expectant mothers and new families through the distribution of diapers, wipes, formula, clothing through 2T, maternity clothing, strollers, pack and plays, and car seats.