2015-2016 Community Report_FINAL
Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
GUEST HOUSE RE-ENTRY PROGRAM<br />
The United Way of Greater<br />
Williamsburg’s Guest House Re-entry<br />
Program provides housing and support<br />
services to previously-incarcerated<br />
men. The program enables individuals<br />
to make a successful transition from<br />
incarceration and to reduce recidivism.<br />
In Virginia, three years after release, the<br />
likelihood of re-arrest is 54%,<br />
re-conviction is 42%, and re-incarceration is 23% meaning<br />
that 1 in 5 ex-offenders will return to incarceration within three<br />
years unless they have meaningful support.<br />
The program currently operates one house with the ability<br />
to house three men and one house manager. An overnight<br />
staff member provides structure and guidance for residents.<br />
Each resident must look for and secure employment, perform<br />
community service, work toward resolving any fines, and pay<br />
child support obligations. With a select team of providers,<br />
participants work through issues or challenges that increase<br />
their likelihood of re-incarceration such as addiction or mental<br />
health issues. Residents<br />
can stay in the program for<br />
up to twelve months if they<br />
are actively working toward<br />
a healthy, stable life.<br />
Picture: Guest House Re-entry<br />
managers and residents.<br />
Overall, the cost per<br />
resident in the program is<br />
approximately $10,000<br />
compared to the $26,000<br />
per year cost to taxpayers<br />
to incarcerate one person<br />
for one year in Virginia.<br />
7
Change language