Rebuilding Lives: The Well of Mercy Approach

"One of our greatest success stories is Sarah. She came to us three years ago, struggling with addiction and feeling completely lost. But with the support and resources we provided, she was able to overcome her addiction and rebuild her life. Today, she has a stable job, a healthy relationship, and is even pursuing higher education. It's truly inspiring to see the transformation that can happen when we give these women a chance."

Homelessness is a pressing issue that affects millions of individuals around the world, and the impact is even more severe when it comes to homeless women and their children. These vulnerable populations face numerous challenges, including lack of stable housing, limited access to healthcare and education, and limited employment opportunities. Communal living organizations have emerged as a potential solution to address the unique needs of homeless women and their children.

In this article and episode, we speak to Mary Rheaume- Zeien, Founder and Executive Director of The Well of Mercy. The Well of Mercy provides a caring, cooperative community home environment to single women who have little or no support. The mothers are physically secure in a safe and loving environment that upholds a process of accountability, as each resident works toward personal holistic goals.  They are provided with educational guidance as they work to build a poverty-free future for themselves and their families.

To listen/watch to the full podcast interview hosted by Greater Than Zero Percent (GTZP), visit our or Spotify or Apple.

Definition and Purpose of Communal Living Organizations

Communal living organizations, also known as transitional housing or supportive housing, are designed to provide temporary accommodation for homeless women and their children.

These organizations aim to offer a safe and supportive environment where families can rebuild their lives, gain stability, and transition to independent living. The primary purpose is to break the cycle of homelessness by providing a range of services that address the physical, emotional, and social needs of residents.

Benefits of Communal Living Organizations

• Stable Housing: Communal living organizations provide homeless women and their children with a stable and secure place to live. This stability is crucial in helping families regain a sense of normalcy and security, which is often lacking in their lives.
• Supportive Services: These organizations offer a wide range of supportive services tailored to the unique needs of homeless women and their children. Services may include case management, counseling, life skills training, childcare assistance, educational support, and job placement assistance. These services aim to empower residents and equip them with the necessary tools to achieve self-sufficiency.
• Community and Peer Support: Communal living organizations foster a sense of community among residents. They provide opportunities for social interaction and peer support, which can help combat the feelings of isolation and loneliness often experienced by homeless women and their children. The supportive network within the organization can be a valuable source of encouragement and motivation.
• Access to Resources: These organizations often have partnerships with local community agencies, which can provide residents with access to additional resources such as healthcare services, legal aid, and financial assistance. This comprehensive approach ensures that homeless women and their children have access to the necessary resources to address their immediate needs and work towards long-term stability.

Communal living organizations like The Well of Mercy have the potential to significantly impact the lives of homeless women and their children by providing stable housing, supportive services, and access to resources. It is crucial for society to recognize the importance of communal living organizations and work towards increasing their accessibility and resources. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for homeless women and their children, helping them break free from the cycle of homelessness and achieve a brighter future.

To listen/watch to the full podcast interview hosted by Greater Than Zero Percent (GTZP), visit our or Spotify or Apple.

Thanks for reading!

- Joseph Smalzer