Mission Statement
Merrick Community Services supports individuals and families to navigate life transitions, find health and stability, and promote independence.
Impact and Programs
Accomplishments
During the last full program year (July 2021 through June 2022), Merrick served over 8300 individuals. Among those served, at least 500 were referred for internal services and to external partners for additional support inclusive of employment and mental well-being. During this time, we completed informal ‘customer feedback’ assessments, with most participants expressing appreciation for the services that were provided. In the coming year, we anticipate a more structured approach to gathering customer feedback. Among the services provided, we highlight: 800,000 pounds of food distributed to East Side neighbors; About 2400 households received food and/or hot meals through Merrick; 25,000 hot, nutritious meals delivered to East Side Seniors; provided housing-related interventions to just under 300 families, preventing 132 evictions and facilitating housing stability for another 160.
Current Goals
Merrick Community Services supports individuals and families to navigate life transitions, find health and stability, and promote independence. We are a values-based organization, guiding our actions through core commitments to Individuality, Diversity, and Dignity; Integrity; Partnership; Stewardship; and Responsiveness. Our organizational goals were updated over the past year. Goal 1: A strong integrated program model responds to emerging needs in the East Side community. Goal 2: Merrick builds human capital through equitable and inclusive practices. Goal 3: A diverse revenue portfolio results in a sustainable business model. These goals are embedded in our three core service areas (Nutrition & Senior Services, Family & Community Services, and Employment & Career Services) each of which have program delivery strategies and program performance targets that are developed annually and tracked regularly.
Community or Constituency Served
We serve all individuals who meet our poverty eligibility guidelines. That includes families and individuals in crisis (including risk of eviction), unemployed/underemployed, hunger insecure, seniors and other home-bound individuals, and youth. We utilize a cultural lens and provide culturally appropriate services to our BIPOC communities.
Geographic Area Served
East Side of Saint Paul, Suburban Ramsey County, and South Washington County.
