California’s “The Homecoming Project” aims to have a major impact for formerly incarcerated people, who frequently find themselves homeless after release.
The idea is that once a person comes out of prison, they’ll have a place to stay for at least six months. Participants and hosts are screened and matched based on common interests and values – and it gets even better.
The Homecoming Project offers daily subsidies to homeowners who offer a living space to formerly incarcerated community members! Meaning, you get PAID to maintain your home and potentially save someone’s life.
“Starting over is a struggle, a physical and emotional battle,” said participant London Croudy.
In a market like Alameda County, where this program is based, renters need to make over $60,000 to be able to afford a studio apartment! It’s no wonder why formerly incarcerated people, especially Black women, are ten times more likely to end up houseless.
Not only that, but formerly incarcerated people frequently face other barriers – like credit checks as well as job and rental discrimination. And that’s exactly why Croudy’s host, Sabina Crocette, took her newfound friend in.
There's no community without compassion, organizing, and collective support. As we imagine and create a future beyond the prison system, these are the kinds of community wins we can look forward to – and maybe even expand to our own neighborhoods!