Dayspring's History & Mission             

   Dayspring came to birth through the efforts of Sister Francis Bisland (pictured at left) of the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood. After hearing the plight of many parents who were searching for a place that served the needs of their sons/daughters in a Christian environment, Sister Francis felt called to begin the ministry of Dayspring.

After months of searching for a place to begin the ministry of Dayspring, Father Edwards who was then pastor of St. Joseph’s Church in Reading, on hearing of the struggle, immediately offered us one of the homes owned by the Parish. Father commented that “having the ministry begin here will be a blessing on the parish.”

Over the period of the next seven months people from all walks of life - young and old, rich and poor alike - came forward to utilize their talents: - carpenters, plumbers, electricians, painters, glaziers, interior decorators, and a host of others who cleaned and scrubbed. As word spread in the community, people donated furnishings, curtains and everything necessary to start a home. All of this was a labor of love, done by volunteers.

We will always be grateful to Father Edwards for his belief in our mission and for his generous spirit borne out of his faith in the Providence of God.

The home and ministry was dedicated on May 31, 1991, by Bishop Thomas Welsh. Dayspring began with its first resident in June 1991. Soon another resident followed. A few months later another donated home opened in which we were able to house three men. During this time we began ministry to persons needing short term care, and from that a respite care program began.

From 1991 until 2000, Dayspring operated primarily on monetary donations, resident contributions, and income from ASSIST families. Administration and staffing was provided through these funds and in-kind support from Precious Blood Convent. The Sisters, believing in the viability of the ministry were willing to make a sacrifice for the sake of the mission.

Through the donations of time, money, and property, Dayspring Homes has grown to include an eight-bed facility on Hazel Street, which has six permanent beds and two respite care beds. Another property provides respite care to a growing number of families. There are currently 69 families on the list. In addition, there are two locations which provide residential services to ten individuals through five apartments.

Since Incorporating, Dayspring has looked to share its vision and expertise by becoming more involved in serving the needs of persons with mental retardation throughout Berks County. The acquisition of funding for the residential program provides Dayspring with the opportunity to realize its goal of serving as many individuals as it can with the quality, personalized services that each deserves.