ABOUT MERCYFIRST: Rooted in a legacy of mercy spanning more than a century, MercyFirst inspires hope and promotes healing for the most vulnerable children and families in New York City and across Long Island. Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1894, today MercyFirst offers a range of innovative programs and services that provide stability and support and help individuals and communities thrive. MercyFirst is accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA) and the Sanctuary Institute. In 2009, MercyFirst became largest organization in country to receive Sanctuary Certification, a trauma-informed approach to working with abused children.