Endicott, NY – A former Endicott church is getting a new life thanks to an innovative concept in caring for the terminally ill. Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo helped break ground at the future Mercy House on Wednesday. The facility provides hospice care to patients who cannot remain in their own homes, allowing them to rest comfortably surrounded by family and friends.

“This much-needed facility will allow patients of all faiths a comfortable place to rest in their final days,” Lupardo said. “I know firsthand the value of hospice after seeing the care they provided to my mother at the end of her life.”

Mercy House will be located at the former St. Casimir’s Church on North McKinley Avenue in Endicott. The $1.2 million project will be funded through a $250 thousand capital grant pledged by Assemblywoman Lupardo, as well as donations from Lourdes Hospital, local charities, foundations, and businesses.

The ten-bed home will be staffed by both professionals and trained volunteers, and will be equipped with a kitchen, library, chapel, and other amenities for residents and their families. Each resident will have their own room for comfort and privacy, and 24-hour care will be provided on site.