Renovation by Hankin Group increases capacity for individuals and couples experiencing homelessness to receive supported transitional housing for up to 22 months
PHOENIXVILLE, PA (May 21, 2026) – Hankin Group today celebrated the grand opening of the Purcell House, a newly renovated transitional housing property that will allow Ann’s Heart, a Phoenixville-based nonprofit, to shelter more individuals and couples experiencing homelessness for up to 22 months at a time. The renovation expanded the facility from eight to 10 bedrooms, meaningfully increasing Ann’s Heart’s capacity to help residents move toward permanent housing and stability.
The project was made possible by the collective support of Hankin Group, Switchpoint Foundation, Justamere Foundation, Foxwynd Foundation, Barry J. and M. Therese Bentley, The Purcell Family, The Detwiler Family Foundation, Michael Polin, The Rotary Club of Phoenixville, The Upper Main Line Rotary Club, and Quest for the Best.
Purcell House is named in honor of Jack Purcell, a beloved member of the Hankin Group family whose dedicated service and deep commitment to the Phoenixville community continue to inspire the work being celebrated today.
The Long-Term Emergency Housing program provides safe, stable shelter for individuals and couples experiencing homelessness while participants work toward long-term self-sufficiency. Through a combination of housing support and personalized case management, the program helps residents address barriers to stability, including income, employment, and access to community resources, while supporting their transition into permanent housing.
The Purcell House, originally constructed in the 1840s, is a 3,500-square-foot, three-story building. The renovation significantly expanded the facility’s capacity and improved functionality, transforming it into a modern, accessible home for program participants. Key improvements include upgrades to the original eight bedrooms, a new accessible first-floor bedroom with a private ADA bathroom; the ability to connect bedrooms to accommodate families in need of emergency support; an enlarged communal kitchen, dining, and gathering space; and new Building Manager quarters. The renovation also included all new windows, new individual heating and cooling units in each bedroom, full plumbing replacement, and a comprehensive refresh of finishes throughout.
“Hankin Group has always believed that the communities we build extend well beyond our own properties,” said Bob Hankin, president and CEO, Hankin Group. “Partnering with Ann’s Heart gave our team the opportunity to put our skills to work for a cause that directly improves lives. We are proud to have played a role in creating a safe, welcoming place where individuals and couples can access the resources they need to thrive.”
“There is nothing quite as amazing as seeing your dream become a reality,” said Kristen McGee, executive director, Ann’s Heart. “Our team is thrilled to watch the future of our campus and emergency services come to life—thanks to the incredible generosity and skill of Hankin Group, and the funders who have made this possible. Providing a home and stability to our guests for up to 22 months ensures we have more time to create lasting solutions.”
Every contractor involved in the Purcell House renovation donated a portion of their labor, making the project a uniquely collaborative and community-supported effort.
About Hankin Group
Located in Exton, Pennsylvania, Hankin Group is a full-service, family-owned real estate company that designs, develops, and manages residential and commercial properties. For more information about Hankin Group and its projects, please visit www.hankingroup.com.
About Ann’s Heart
Ann’s Heart, founded in 2014, is a secular non-profit organization based in Phoenixville,
Pennsylvania, dedicated to providing a place of welcome and human services. Our key services
include Emergency Shelter, Basic Needs Support, Housing Case Management, Community
Meals and Food Programs, and Education and Empowerment. In March 2024, Ann’s Heart
purchased the HEART Campus, ensuring a permanent home for our operations and allowing for
future growth. Ann’s Heart supports an average of 65 individuals per season with emergency
shelter and assists also provides housing case management. Each week, the HEART Kitchen
distributes an average of 500+ meals through a variety of programs. Our work is powered by over 600 volunteers committed to making a positive impact. For more information and to get involved, visit www.annsheart.org.