About HomeFront - Our History

In the spring of 1990, Connie Mercer received a call from Dr. Chris Hansen, a pediatrician who worked with Mercer County's Department of Youth and Family Services. "Connie," he said, "Come with me." He drove her to the Sleepy Hollow Motel on Route 1 in Lawrenceville. Dr. Hansen showed Connie the homeless families that lived in the squalid motel rooms because they had no place else to go. The tiny, filthy rooms housed entire families – sometimes 4 children shared a single bed. There were no cooking facilities, no bathtubs, and no tables or chairs.

Connie was determined to change the situation. She and her friends began making hot meals and delivering them to the families. They drove parents to job training sessions, doctor appointments, and classes where they could study to get a high school diploma.

The cadre of volunteers grew. In 1992 the group incorporated as part of the Exchange Club, a nationwide service organization. In 1998 Connie founded HomeFront, which has helped thousands of families break the cycle of poverty by finding jobs, affordable homes and security.

HomeFront’s methods are based on a holistic approach that serves every member of the family and provides support in all areas from the procurement of free food, furniture, cars and clothing when needed, to all manner of life skills training, mentoring and support. HomeFront’s programs are comprehensive; they include job readiness training, job skills certification, educational enrichment, summer camp, and culminate with placement into affordable housing with ongoing supportive services.

As a result of Connie Mercer’s passion, expertise and efforts, today there are no longer families living in squalid motels in Mercer County.

HomeFront’s approach works because so many local citizens believe in what we do and support our efforts. We thank them and thank you for your interest.