OUR PROGRAMS

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 At Bridging the Gap with Reentry, we understand that stable housing is fundamental to successful reentry. Our housing support program begins with emergency assistance for immediate needs and extends through long-term stability planning. We provide move-in support, help with utility payments, and ongoing housing stability services. Our housing team works closely with participants to overcome barriers to permanent housing, ensuring they have a secure foundation for rebuilding their lives.

Unfortunately, too many people exit prisons and jails without a stable home to return to. A significant number of our community members are caught in a revolving door between homelessness and reincarceration. In some cases, the lack of stable housing can delay a person's approval for discretionary release from prison, leading people to serve more time behind bars than those with stable housing. Many of our participants face housing denials based on their criminal records years or decades after serving their time, even when their criminal history does not indicate that they present a substantial risk to persons or property.

We believe that everyone deserves a second chance and a stable home from which to rebuild their lives. No person should exit a prison or jail only to wind up on the streets. To that end, we are committed to taking a comprehensive approach to addressing the housing needs of returning citizens and people with criminal records, and by doing so, increasing public safety within our communities. Addressing reentry housing needs also furthers our commitment to advancing equity and reversing systemic racism, given the racial disparities evident in the criminal justice system.

Through our evidence-based Housing First approach, we've demonstrated that:

• Our program offers greater long-term housing stability, especially among people experiencing chronic homelessness
• Our housing support services have reduced costs by shortening stays in hospitals, residential substance abuse programs, nursing homes, and prisons
• Our program successfully houses people with intersecting vulnerabilities, including those with a history of substance abuse, mental illness challenges, domestic violence, and chronic medical conditions

Our data shows that participants in our Housing First model access housing faster and are more likely to remain stably housed. Our permanent supportive housing has a one-year housing retention rate of up to 98 percent, and our rapid re-housing helps people exit homelessness quickly—in one study, an average of two months—with 75 to 91 percent of households remaining housed a year after being rapidly re-housed.

Our Reentry Respite program provides a safe, nurturing environment where individuals can begin their journey of recovery and renewal.  Participants receive 24/7 support from trained peer specialists who understand their experiences firsthand. With a 15-30 day average stay, individuals have the time and space needed to stabilize, reflect, and plan their next steps. Our program combines crisis prevention with practical support, creating a foundation for successful community reintegration. 

The heart of our program lies in our peer support network. Our team of certified peer specialists, available 24/7, brings lived experience and deep understanding to their work. They provide recovery coaching, mentorship, and practical guidance for community integration. Through shared experiences and genuine connection, our peer specialists help participants navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and build confidence in their recovery journey. 

Building independent living skills is essential for lasting success. Our life skills program takes a holistic approach, covering everything from financial literacy to digital competency. We help participants develop practical skills for daily living while offering specialized support for family reunification. Through workshops, one-on-one coaching, and hands-on practice, participants gain the confidence and capabilities needed to navigate community life successfully. 

Finding meaningful employment is crucial for long-term stability. Our employment program goes beyond basic job placement to focus on career development and sustainable employment.  Through partnerships with local employers and workforce development organizations, we create pathways to jobs that offer dignity, fair wages, and opportunities for advancement. 

We believe that meeting immediate basic needs is crucial for stability and success. 

Through our mobile food pantry, we provide regular access to nutritious food and essential household items. Our emergency assistance program helps with immediate necessities like hygiene products, clothing, and transportation support. 

We maintain a resource closet stocked with seasonal items, work attire, and personal care products. Working closely with local food banks and community partners, we ensure that no participant has to choose between basic necessities and their recovery journey. For those facing unexpected challenges, our emergency fund can help with urgent needs like medication co-pays, identification documents, or essential medical supplies.