Donate to the Guest House Re-entry Program
Donate to the Re-entry Program
The United Way of Greater Williamsburg, in cooperation with Colonial Community Corrections and District 34 Probation and Parole, operates a re-entry program, known as the Welcome Home Guest House Re-Entry Program, that provides housing and support services for previously incarcerated individuals. The purpose of the program is to engage and enable individuals who wish to make a successful transition from incarceration to community.
The program provides stable housing and support services to increase the chance of success for a person leaving incarceration and returning to their community. An overnight staff member provides structure and guidance for residents. Each resident must look for and secure employment, work toward resolving any fines, and pay child support obligations. With a select team of providers, participants work through any issues or challenges that increase their likelihood of re-incarceration. Residents can stay in the program for up to twelve months as long as they are actively working toward a healthy, stable life.
The Welcome Home Guest House Program was first established in 2011 through a partnership with the Sisters of the Franciscan Brethren. Since its inception the program has grown through a grant from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice. The program currently has the capacity to house nine men. Applicants to the program are interviewed by a team from the United Way, Colonial Community Corrections, and District 34 Probation and Parole, then, if selected for the program, are welcomed into a guest house staffed with a live-in house manager.
If you would like to learn more about the Welcome Home Guest House Re-Entry Program or if you are interested in providing support for the program, please contact Sharon Gibson-Ellis at 757-253-2264 or Sharon.Gibson-Ellis@uwgw.org.