Policies
It is our hope that guests of the Hands of Compassion (HOC) will feel loved and safe. It is our expectation that we will all (guests, staff, and visitors) treat each other with kindness and respect. The Hands of Compassion is a Christian ministry that welcomes people of all faiths/beliefs.
In order to maintain a safe, supportive environment we do ask all of our guests to comply with a few simple rules that support our mission and values. HOC does reserve the right to deny service to anyone based on the stated policies and expectations for behavior as a guest in the house.
1. HOC provides temporary housing and spiritual, physical, and emotional support for Rochester, MN. Mayo Clinic and Saint Mary’s patients and their caregivers. However, we are not equipped to provide any medical treatment or advice.
2. HOC is committed to be a scent free environment. We strongly encourage guests not to bring perfumes, essential oils, and scented hygiene products, or other items that could trigger allergic reactions for guests and staff. Fire hazards such as candles and incense are prohibited in our facilities.
3. Substance Use: Smoking and vaping are not allowed on any HOC property (in or around house/driveway/parking lot). Alcohol and recreational or illicit drugs are not allowed anywhere on the property; a guest who appears to be impaired will be denied entrance or asked to leave the house.
4. Vulgar language/profanity or inappropriate apparel is not allowed in the house. This language concern includes music, television and conversations anywhere in the HOC common areas.
5. HOC is not equipped to accommodate animals. An exception can be made for Nationally Certified Service Animals, but this requires specific approval by the HOC board.
6. HOC is not equipped to house infants and toddlers. Children (as a patient or as a guest family member) are the full responsibility of the parent/guardian/caregiver; no babysitting or childcare is provided. If a child is disruptive or causes issues for other guests in the house, the family may be asked to leave. We do have some adjoining rooms with multiple sleep options for families as available. A parent or guardian must be present at all times with any dependents.
7. HOC can not provide caregiving or direct patient support. A caregiver is required for any guest who is planning surgery, or who will need assistance with activities of daily living, etc.
8. Guests have use of a full kitchen and dining area, but HOC is not licensed to prepare meals for guests.
9. Quiet Time in the house is from 10pm-7am. Guests are asked to respect the privacy, clinic schedules, medical conditions and rest needs of other guests.
10. This ministry operates solely based on donations, so no guest will ever be asked to pay. We would ask that you give as you are able and also that you would tell your friends about your experience with this ministry. If you would like some promotional materials to share with your local congregation or others who might be interested in supporting our ministry we will be happy to provide you with those.
Thank you so much for being our guests here at the House of Compassion. During your stay, we want to support you any way that we are able. We would be happy to pray with you and for you. Our goal is for this to be your home away from home. The staff of HOC are brothers and sisters in Christ and strive to treat each other and our guests with love and concern. We want you to feel the love of Jesus while you are here, and when you remember us.
“Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did this for one of my brothers, even the least of them, so you did it for me.” Matthew 25:40