The Inn of Amazing Mercy provides safe, affordable housing and integrated recovery programs within a restored historic building in Kensington, the epicenter of Philadelphia’s opioid epidemic. The project transformed the abandoned, historic Temple University Episcopal Hospital School of Nursing into residences for 62 homeless individuals beginning their recovery either directly from the street or after being discharged from substance abuse treatment. The building includes 54 permanent housing units and eight short-term emergency beds. Funding for construction came through Project HOME’s partnerships with the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA), Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA), and Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation (PHDC), which not only provided financing but also held the developer team accountable to meet agency- and client-specific requirements for quality, sustainability, and equitable employment opportunities during construction. Inn of Amazing Mercy is the ninth project of MPOWER, a unique partnership model drawing on a powerful network of people and ideas that multiplies Project HOME’s impact in five areas: investments, relationships, resources, advocacy, and evidence. The project benefited from $14 million in private funding, contributed by over 20 investors and donors, plus gifts from the William Penn Foundation, Hess Foundation, and rock icon Jon Bon Jovi’s JBJ Soul Foundation.

An extensive renovation introduced contemporary residential architecture while preserving historic details such as original fireplaces. Using a single original window found as a model, the mismatched aluminum windows were replaced with historic replicas. Exterior brick was cleaned and repointed; the entrance and fencing were restored; and a new paved courtyard and landscaping welcome residents and guests. Shared kitchen, dining, and gathering spaces are included on every floor to give residents a feeling of community. Efficient utilities minimize energy expenses. The revival of the historic property creates a clean, safe environment for residents to thrive.

The project’s impact on the community of Kensington provides a visual reminder of hope and potential. Abandoned since 2009, the building had become a neighborhood eyesore. Barbed wire wrapped the fire escapes; trash filled the fence line; doors and windows were boarded with plywood and corrugated metal, if they remained at all. Deterioration, damage, and dirt covered the lot. While the building – like so many in Kensington – seemed hopeless on the surface, Project HOME had the vision to see potential. The Inn of Amazing Mercy has been called a “beacon of equity” by a local news outlet.

Project HOME recognizes that true transformation goes beyond bricks and mortar. Supportive services, educational opportunities, and access to high quality medical care are all centered on the dignity of each resident. Taken together, the model creates consistent, real-time access to resources that empower residents to reconnect with their inherent self-worth.

Project Partners:

• Owner/Developer – Project Home
• Architect – CBP Architects
• Owners Representation/Energy Consulting – Innova Services Corporations
• Civil Engineering – Stantec
• Structural Engineering – The Harman Group/IMEG
• MEP Engineering – Holstein White
• Lighting Design – BEAM Ltd
• Construction – TN Ward Company
• Section 106 Reporting – Powers & Company Inc