House of Mercy

Food Pantry | Donation Center | Thrift Store

For nearly 20 years, House of Mercy has opened its doors to families across Northern Virginia, providing essential food and clothing to neighbors from more than 50 zip codes. Last year, we served over 17,800 households, including 30,500 children. Each number represents a story, family, and a neighbor whose burden was lightened because of the generosity of donors like you. 

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For months, Eric wandered from place to place, searching for someone — anyone — who would see him. He was tired, hungry, and alone. Every door he knocked on brought the same answer: no. Each “no” chipped away at his hope. He began to wonder if maybe he had been forgotten — by people, by the world, even by God. Then one day, Eric walked through the doors of House of Mercy. His shoulders were heavy, his eyes downcast, his spirit weary. But this time, the answer was different. This time, he heard yes. Yes, we can help with food. Yes, you are welcome here. Yes, you are seen, and you are loved. That simple “yes” — born out of compassion and faith — became a turning point. Weeks later, when he called again, his voice cracked as he shared that life was falling apart once more. He felt like everything was slipping away. We told him to come in — that mercy wasn’t finished with him yet. 

When Eric arrived, he carried everything he owned in a small, worn-out bag. That sight broke our hearts. Thanks to our generous donors and thrift store volunteers, we found a backpack sturdy enough to hold his few belongings. We added blankets to keep him warm through the cold nights while we waited for a sleeping bag and tent to come in. We also provided gas cards and resources to help him take another step toward stability. When we handed him the backpack, Eric’s eyes filled with tears. “You don’t know what this means to me,” he whispered. “Thank you for not giving up on me.” At that moment, mercy came alive. 

This is what House of Mercy is all about — creating spaces where God’s love and compassion can flourish. Through simple acts of kindness — a meal, a blanket, a backpack — hope begins to grow again. Lives begin to heal. And mercy, once again, finds its way into the world. Eric’s story reminds us that sometimes, the most powerful miracle begins with one small word — yes.

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