FAQ
Who started The Mercy Center?
The Mercy Center was established by Fred and Dianne Doell (the International Directors) in response to the needs that they saw in the city of Pattaya. The Center is a ministry of Victory Family Church.
Who owns The Mercy Center?
No one individual owns the Mercy Center, currently the property is rented, but we are looking to purchase the property to provide greater security for the children in our care. If purchased the property will be placed in the hands of Goodwill Foundation, which is a registered foundation in Thailand and is governed by all the requirements of operating a charitable foundation.
Who runs The Mercy Center?
The International Directors are the founders and overseers of the work of The Mercy Center. They have the ”Mercy Management Group” who meet regularly, and advise and help establish the governance of the work of The Mercy Center. An Office Administrator is employed to ensure that the day to day running is efficient.
Who Funds The Mercy Center?
The Mercy Center relies upon donations from individuals and groups. It receives no financial support from any Government body. Some organisations like Hope for the Nations, Global Care, Pattaya Street Kids, Pattaya International Ladies Club, etc, will fund specific projects or activities. Otherwise income comes from donations.
How is the money spent?
Where money is designated for a particular activity we ensure that the whole of that gift is used for that activity. Some will designate money for student sponsorship - again all money is used for the payment of fees, purchase of books, uniform, etc. Where money is given as a ‘general’ gift, it is used where needed most. Some money is spent on administration, but this is kept to the minimum. The International Directors are not paid any allowance from The Mercy Center.
Do you only receive monetary donations?
No it is possible to give gifts. We use many kilograms of rice and milk formula each month in our slum’s projects. Our Prison’s project always needs water, fresh fruit and personal sized soap. The children’s shelter can use almost anything. Second hand items are often given and (provided they are in good condition) are used in the children’s home, in the prisons and slums.
Are you connected with the ‘other’ Mercy Center?
No we are not. We are well aware of the terrific work that has been undertaken by Father Joe and the HDF Mercy Center in Bangkok, but we are not affiliated or connected to their organisation in any way.