Meet Nettie.

Nettie Golden White Pitney (1900-1985)

Who is Nettie? Glad you asked.

Nettie is a big reason why Rockford Rescue Mission exists, because she was the mother of Mission pioneer Gerald Pitney. She married Leonard Pitney and settled on a farm in Higbee, Missouri, where she found great fulfillment as a wife, mother and homemaker. Nettie especially enjoyed cooking and baking, with apricot cobbler being her specialty dessert.

Nettie served as a Sunday School teacher and church pianist and influenced her children to love music — but more importantly, to love God. She had a heart for missions and ministry; the couple even donated a portion of their land to the Mt. Zion Baptist Association for a campground, where she could often be found cooking for the campers.

Nettie had a quiet, humble spirit and would surely question why anyone in Rockford, Illinois, would make a fuss about her. But she would love that her legacy includes creatively extending the hope of Christ to people who are hurting and in need of His love.

A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE

Nettie’s Mercantile & Café is a coming together of Rockford Rescue Mission’s Remade Store and Restoration Café, in the former café’s location at 625 West State St. The name Nettie was chosen to honor the mother of Rockford Rescue Mission’s co-founder and Executive Director, Rev. G.O. Pitney.

Nettie’s Mercantile and Café offers a delectable eatery, unique shopping and so much more. Where else can you savor a cup of coffee, enjoy freshly baked muffin or cookie, find a gift … and change a life? Most of the furniture and décor is created or repurposed by individuals rebuilding their lives through our Life Recovery programs along with Mission staff and volunteers. All Nettie’s Mercantile proceeds benefit Rockford Rescue Mission programs.

“By having a single destination location, we’re combining the best of both outlets into one unbelievable experience,” says CEO Sherry Pitney. “We are always seeking ways to best serve God – and our community – while honoring our past. This is an exciting way to do that, and we invite our friends and partners to visit Nettie’s soon!”

Nettie’s Location:

625 West State St.
Rockford, IL 61102
815-977-4361

Nettie’s Hours

Tuesday to Friday | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday & Monday | Closed

We are open for shopping and limited dining or grab-and-go bakery and coffee items.

FROM SHERRY PITNEY

Rockford Rescue Mission CEO

In a season where nothing is very certain yet, it’s been wonderful to see our new Nettie’s Mercantile & Cafe open.

We envisioned Nettie’s as a unique shopping experience — where the Mission’s theme of restoration fills the senses. A Remade item reflects not only renewal of the item itself, but also of the person who crafted it. You’ll also find antiques, unique clothing, jewelry and more. We already sell delicious bakery items and our Restoration Blend coffee … with table and counter seating right in the store. Soon we’ll also offer sandwiches, salads and additional food and drinks.

We also can customize items — from hand-painted signs to choosing the exact color you want in a piece made by our Life Recovery men and women. Or, maybe you have a piece of furniture or decor that needs a facelift. At Nettie’s, we can bring the piece to life again by painting and personalizing it. Bring in your idea and we can work with you on it!

Word is spreading already. After people come to the store once, many are coming back … and bringing their friends and relatives. With new and unique items added daily, Nettie’s is never the same store twice.

Best of all, when you shop at Nettie’s you directly benefit Rockford Rescue Mission and the men, women and children we minister to each day. Our residents are so encouraged and inspired to know that something they’ve made is being used in your home décor. Supporting Nettie’s is a special way to show your care for our community and to extend the love of Christ to all. Come see us soon!