(Thechieftainspear) – A vital San Bernardino shelter that has long served as a lifeline for women and families escaping domestic violence and substance abuse is now facing an uncertain future following a sudden loss of federal funding.
Mary’s Mercy Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting vulnerable populations, including displaced men, women, and children, was informed that its government grant would be terminated ahead of schedule—retroactive to March 24.
Dan Flores, Executive Director of the center, expressed deep concern over the unexpected funding halt, which he says was initially planned to continue until the summer. “We received an email on April 1st saying that the grant was being discontinued early. That puts us in a critical situation,” he said.
Currently, 10 mothers and 24 children live at Mary’s Haven, a transitional housing program operated by the center. The facility provides shelter, meals, clothing, therapy, childcare, and counseling services—all of which are now in jeopardy.
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One mother, who chose to remain anonymous for safety reasons, said she fled an abusive relationship to protect her three children. “They were witnessing the violence, and I knew it wasn’t just about me anymore,” she shared. “It took me eight years to leave, but I finally found the strength—and Mary’s Haven gave us a safe place to land.”
Another resident, Barbara Bennett, battled addiction for years following a toxic relationship. A brush with the law and time in jail became the turning point in her life. Since finding refuge at the center, she has not only remained sober but has also returned to school. “I graduated high school and now I’m in college,” Bennett said. “I’m doing this for my kids.”
Mary’s Mercy Center offers more than just a roof over people’s heads—it offers a chance to rebuild. Services include job training, financial literacy programs, counseling, and access to early childhood education for residents’ children.
Flores says the sudden withdrawal of funding has left the center scrambling. “We’re working closely with other local nonprofits to see if any emergency resources or support can help fill the financial gap,” he said.
For the women staying at the shelter, the fear isn’t just about losing housing—it’s about losing the only stable foundation they’ve had in years. “This place saved us,” said the unnamed mother. “We’re not just trying to survive anymore. We’re trying to thrive.”
With uncertainty looming, Flores and his team remain hopeful that community support or alternative funding can keep Mary’s Mercy Center open—and continue the mission of helping women and children escape the cycle of abuse and hardship.
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