In the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, a beacon of hope shines brightly for the city's underserved women. This beacon is Merge Memphis, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing safe emergency shelter, housing, and wrap-around services to assist women towards self-sufficiency. At the helm of this organization is Sherry McClure, a full-time nurse and the executive director of Merge Memphis.

Sherry McClure and Merge Memphis

Sherry McClure, along with her husband Keith, co-founded Merge Memphis. Both full-time nurses, the McClures have a strong passion for making a difference in their community. Their mission is simple yet profound: to help those less fortunate live in dignity, safety, and peaceful surroundings.

Merge Memphis serves the underserved women of the Mid South area, providing them with safe emergency shelter and housing, and wrap-around services to assist them towards self-sufficiency. The organization runs several programs to support its mission, including Clare's House, an emergency shelter that offers a peaceful refuge for homeless women in the community.

The Homeless Crisis in Memphis

The work of Merge Memphis is crucial in a city like Memphis, where homelessness is a significant issue. According to the Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, an annual count of sheltered and unsheltered homelessness, the number of unsheltered homeless individuals doubled from 2020 to 2021. Specifically, about 30 percent of the homeless population in Memphis is comprised of women. However, prior to the opening of facilities like Clare's House, only six percent of shelter beds were set aside for them.

Merge Memphis' Impact

The impact of Merge Memphis is evident in the success stories of those they have helped. For instance, Debra Ballard, a resident at Clare's House, was homeless and living in her car before she found the organization. Stories like Ballard's underscore the importance of the work being done by Merge Memphis and the difference it makes in the lives of Memphis' homeless women.

How Merge Memphis Operates

Merge Memphis operates several programs to support its mission. In addition to Clare's House, the organization runs the Opportunity Center, which provides economical housing for men striving to rebuild their lives. They also address food insecurity through the Little Free Pantries program, installing pantries around Memphis stocked with basic food items for anyone in need.

Merge Memphis has also formed partnerships with several organizations and businesses, including Pinnacle Bank, Cricket Wireless, SouthPoint Church, and Juice Plus, to further its mission. These partnerships, along with the tireless work of dozens of volunteers, allow Merge Memphis to continue serving the community.

Make a Donation

The Call to Action

Merge Memphis is a recognized non-profit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible. The organization relies on the generosity of the public to continue its work. They need donations, especially winter coats, jackets, hats, gloves, and scarves, and they also need volunteers to help in different areas.

By supporting Merge Memphis, you are helping to provide essential services to underserved women in the Mid South area. Your donation can help provide safe emergency shelter and housing, food, clothing, and other necessary resources to those in need.

In conclusion, Sherry McClure and Merge Memphis are making a significant difference in the lives of Memphis' homeless women. Through their tireless work and dedication, they are providing hope and a path towards self-sufficiency for those who need it most.