Welcome to Empower Restoration, our capital campaign!
New Mercies is expanding our mission through the Empower Restoration campaign, transforming a historic building into a home for up to 17 families.
This Supportive Housing Program will serve mothers and children who we meet through our Child Hosting Program, where reunification is often delayed by months due to the affordable housing crisis in Fort Wayne. With safe housing, coaching, and Christ-centered community, families can heal, grow, and continue to move toward independence, right in the heart of Fort Wayne.
By the Numbers
74
total beds
12,238 square feet
to be renovated as useable space in the building
17
families served at full capacity
50,000
average per bed renovation cost
Lunch & Learn Events
Want to learn how you can support the campaign?
Join us for a one-hour Lunch & Learn at Headwaters Church (Building 2). Enjoy lunch, hear the vision of Empower Restoration, and take a guided tour of the building. Learn more or register below.
Current Condition
What's been done so far?
The Empower Restoration project continues to move forward. Fundraising efforts began in August 2023 and have remained steady throughout the campaign. Basement demolition was completed in April 2025 to prepare for construction, and the project has since been divided into 2 phases, beginning with the main floor renovation. We are currently 73% funded toward this phase, and Construction Documents are nearing completion. Once the remaining funds are secured, renovations will begin, with a target construction start date of August 1, 2026, and an anticipated opening in early 2027 to serve up to 7 families.
View current designs or our Case for Support below to learn more.
Join us on this journey!
We invite you to partner with us in this transformative initiative, creating a place where families can heal, grow, and rebuild together. Your gift to Empower Restoration directly supports the renovation of safe, stable housing for mothers and children.
- $335,909 will fund the remainder of what is needed for Phase 1.
- $50,000 funds the renovation of one family living space.
- $100,000 supports two family spaces or can fully renovate one key area of the building.
- $100,000+ can bring to life one of the building’s central gathering spaces, such as the dining room, kitchen, kids play area, or classroom, or fund a needed system like security.
- In-kind donations can provide each room with furniture and appliances.
Every gift moves us closer to opening the doors for up to 17 families in need of hope and stability.
Contact Bonnie Doolittle to learn more about these opportunities!
Thank you to our sponsors!
