A nonprofit organization is closing and demolishing its old motel in west Ocala to construct a new, 59-unit housing complex that will serve the city’s homeless and those in need.
Saving Mercy announced last week that its facility at 3601 W Silver Springs Boulevard will close at the end of this month and be demolished shortly thereafter to make way for the new complex.
The nonprofit says it is doing the project in collaboration with CarrFour Supportive Housing, an organization that develops, operates, and manages “innovative housing communities for individuals and families in need.”
Saving Mercy hopes to break ground next month and have the building completed “by the end of 2025.”
According to the statement, the organization is also planning to “begin construction on ten duplex-style residences” during the same time.
“These extensive construction projects require Saving Mercy to cease operations in our existing motel and have the building demolished,” reads the statement.
In a statement issued to residents, the organization gave residents a 30-day notice of termination for their “night-to-night stay at Saving Mercy’s Motel.” Those tenants must vacate the property by October 1.
“We understand that moving can be a challenging process, and we are here to assist you in any way we can during this transition,” reads a letter to residents written by Penny Beehler, the Executive Director of Saving Mercy. Beehler and her case manager, Heather Berry, are assisting residents with “finding alternative housing,” according to the letter.
In the statement on its website, the nonprofit says it will continue to serve the homeless community through both its Homeless Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Programs.
“We will make every effort to assist our motel residents in relocating and we will continue to serve the homeless community through both our Homeless Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Programs. Please join us in praying for a safe, successful, and speedy process,” reads the statement.
The new shelter announcement comes just days after Wear Gloves announced its acquisition of a shelter that it will renovate and use for similar purposes.
Saving Mercy was founded by parishioners from Blessed Trinity Church, who “shared a vision of helping the homeless.” The organization offers temporary and permanent housing solutions to help individuals and families move towards permanent stability.
For more information on the organization or to make a donation, visit Saving Mercy online or send your donation to PO Box 771736, Ocala, FL, 34477.
