"A Beacon of Hope"
This is where our journey begins. Get to know La Madonna Della Strada / Our Lady of the Streets and what we do, and how we're committed to providing housing and shelter for the homeless in our community. Join us as we grow and succeed together. We're glad you're here to be a part of our story.
Our Commitment
For decades, Sister Grace Miller and Sister Rita Lewis have fought for the homeless community. Thousands of homeless people came through their doors. Some were just seeking a place to stay for the night or a hot meal. Others stayed for months.
The pair saw some walk away into a better path in life and more stable living. Others were less fortunate.
The wall of Miller’s office at the House of Mercy was a monument to the latter. It was plastered with dozens of obituaries documenting the lives of the many they had lost.
Miller’s belief in homeless people’s right to basic respect extended to the grave. She would often go toe-to-toe with the county to help ensure funeral costs were covered, including burial.
Learn more about our history, our goals, and how you can contribute to our success in providing housing and shelter for the homeless in our community.
About Us
Sister Miller is part of the Sisters of Mercy, a progressive Catholic congregation founded in 1831 by Irish Sister Catherine McAuley. Its teachings revolve around social justice initiatives, ranging from anti-racism to support of environmentalism and migrants. The Sisters of Mercy strive to emulate the life of Jesus in their actions.
Miller found her calling in 1985. It was a cold night, and she recalled going out and finding three men wandering the streets. She set out to find them shelter, only to meet dead ends when shelters turned them away.
“I argued with them and struggled with them, and finally they let them in,” she said. “But that's when I decided that I needed to open up a place for homeless people who could come at any time, day or night and not be questioned.”
She began that mission by requesting $20,000 from the Sisters of Mercy to start the operation that would become known as House of Mercy. They gave it to her — but told her that she would need to fundraise for whatever else she needed to start the shelter.
“I had never done any fundraising in my life, but I didn't tell them that,” she said with a laugh. “I just took the money they gave me and ran before they had a chance to change their minds.
Spreading Awareness
Explore our work, our goals, and how you can contribute to our success.
"If we each can take a little of what Sister “Grace” has exemplified during her time here on earth, the ROC would be a better place. I respect and love her servant leadership."
Naila Robinson
"She is such a special human 💗 she has touched so many lives, and has been a steadfast example of fighting for what's right. I'm so glad you had the chance to sit with her, hear her, and let her share her words once more. This community loves her so much."
Melissa Goldengates
Amazing Grace In The News
Contact us
Location
122 Roycroft St.
Rochester, NY 14621
+1 585-434-0179