Safe, decent and affordable housing has been an issue for people who are economically poor for centuries. As housing programs were initiated in the states and communities around the country, Sisters of Mercy have joined this effort, initiating programs and serving as administrators and program managers.

Mercy Housing, Inc. was born to provide better and more comprehensive programs than previously accessible and is now one of the largest housing organizations in the United States providing housing development, property operations and management services. Founded in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1981, the idea quickly took hold elsewhere, expanding to 42 states and the District of Columbia and serving more than 75,000 people.