House of Mercy is a dedicated supporter of 12 Baskets Café financially and through volunteering efforts. However, 12 Baskets Café isn't just about support; it's a welcoming space where you can enjoy a good meal and hang out. As a program of Asheville Poverty Initiative, located at the intersection of State St. and Haywood Road, 12 Baskets Café has been a steadfast presence for over a decade, fostering community and advocating for economic justice.

Prioritizing inclusivity, abundance, and dignity, 12 Baskets Café and the Realities of Poverty Education program address issues such as hunger, housing, and poverty. They believe in listening to and learning from those most impacted, shifting the focus from charity to building an empowered community working towards a more equitable economic reality.

12 Baskets Café operates as a by-donation community café, utilizing 100% rescued food and staffed by fellow community members. It's not just about the food; it's about fostering a sense of community. To learn more about how you can get involved click the lin below.

Every Sunday, we join our friends at the WCCW for a worship service, extending our support beyond the prison walls. For individuals granted a pass to attend our service outside of the prison, we provide transportation, facilitating a transformative experience that often leads to changed perspectives for all.

Our commitment doesn't end there. We stand ready to support individuals upon their release from prison, offering transportation to work and appointments, as well as providing clothing and other resources. While our resources may be limited at times, we are dedicated to finding ways to meet their needs. We firmly believe that by uplifting those at the "bottom," we all rise together as a community.