Mercy Home Alumni Gather for Thanksgiving Celebration

December 3, 2025

As people traveled near and far to be with loved ones this Thanksgiving, we hosted a special celebration for Community Care members. Coworkers each brought in food for a potluck dinner that ensured that Mercy Home alumni can experience the feeling of community around the holiday.  

“For some people, this might be their only Thanksgiving and for others, it could just be an opportunity to celebrate with Community Care,” said Community Care Clinical Director Susan Hackney.  

Mercy Home’s Community Care team has a longstanding tradition of hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for its members. Originally created to support former residents facing housing instability, the gathering has evolved into an annual event that welcomes all members and their guests. It now serves as an opportunity to enjoy a nourishing meal, remain connected with our supportive staff, and meet new people.  

“We all brought food to show our appreciation for them,” Hackney said. “They came to us in some of their most vulnerable times and trusted us.”  

Terry, a Mercy Home resident from 2006-2011, moved in at the age of 12 after traveling a difficult road. He lived in multiple foster homes and Mercy Home helped him with school, took him to Ireland for a week, and later helped connect him to jobs in the area. 

“I was a kid so finding a place like Mercy Home was the best thing to happen to me,” he said. “They made me understand that I’m not alone.” 

Terry’s family wasn’t around for the holidays that are “nostalgic for most” and so he spent most of those moments with Mercy Home. That’s why he still enjoys participating, volunteering, and helping set up Community Care events even after leaving Mercy Home nearly 15 years ago.

“I understand how important this place is,” he said. “They’ve helped me greatly. Just being a part of Mercy Home makes my day and life better. I feel an obligation to give back so I’ll always be connected. They’re probably the reason I’m alive today.” 

Terry wasn’t having his own Thanksgiving meal but said that Community Care’s will “definitely do.” He, along with others in attendance, also wrote down one thing they are thankful for.  

“Faces change, people change, but Mercy Home is always home,” he said. “This is my family.” 

The door is always open at Mercy Home for Community Care members to return and reconnect with their care managers. They will also host their annual Christmas celebration in December, where more than 500 members and their families typically attend.