Still My Baby: The Untold Story – Providing Access to Housing After Incarceration
Podcast Information:
- Title: Still My Baby
- Host/Author: Lemonada Media & Campaign Zero
- Description: Still My Baby is a poignant limited series that delves into the profound impact of Michael Brown's murder in Ferguson, Missouri, from the perspective of his mother, Lezley McSpadden. The series explores the family's journey through tragedy, public turmoil, and their path to healing and rebuilding their lives.
- Episode: The Untold Story: Providing Access to Housing After Incarceration
- Release Date: October 3, 2023
Introduction
In the episode titled "The Untold Story: Providing Access to Housing After Incarceration," host Stephanie Whittles Wax engages in a heartfelt conversation with two pivotal figures in the realm of criminal justice reform: Leslie Credle, founder and executive director of Justice for Housing in Boston, and Bernadette Butler, director of the Homecoming Project under Impact Justice in Northern California. The discussion centers on the critical barriers faced by formerly incarcerated individuals in securing stable housing and the multifaceted approaches taken by these organizations to address this pressing issue.
Barriers to Reentry After Incarceration
Stephanie opens the dialogue by highlighting the unified problem both organizations aim to tackle: the formidable challenges individuals face when reentering society post-incarceration. Leslie Credle elaborates on these barriers, emphasizing housing discrimination as a central obstacle.
Leslie Credle [02:59]: "A criminal record prevents you from gaining meaningful employment, government benefits, health care, and most importantly, housing. But it doesn't prevent you from being the President of the United States, that's for sure."
Leslie underscores the pervasive impact of housing instability, linking it to broader social determinants of health and public safety concerns. She highlights how homelessness exacerbates health crises, increases law enforcement interactions over minor infractions, and imposes significant financial burdens on taxpayers.
Justice for Housing: Leslie Credle’s Mission
Leslie shares her personal journey, revealing that her own experience with incarceration inspired her to establish Justice for Housing. Her organization is dedicated to eliminating housing discrimination and homelessness among justice-involved individuals.
Leslie Credle [06:02]: "I founded Justice for Housing because I saw firsthand the disparities between the privileged and unprivileged during my reentry. We had to create a support system where others were left in transient and unstable living conditions."
Justice for Housing employs a comprehensive strategy encompassing policy change, legal advocacy, and direct services. Leslie highlights their collaboration with the Boston Housing Authority to develop subsidy and Section 8 vouchers, ensuring that participants receive stable housing upon release.
Homecoming Project: Bernadette Butler’s Initiative
Bernadette Butler introduces the Homecoming Project, an initiative under Impact Justice aimed at addressing the housing crisis in the Bay Area, particularly for those reentering society after long-term incarceration.
Bernadette Butler [07:22]: "During our five years of operation, we've achieved a 100% housing placement rate, 95% employment rate, and 0% recidivism among our participants."
The Homecoming Project pairs formerly incarcerated individuals serving long sentences with community "hosts" who provide stable housing and support. This program not only offers housing but also comprehensive wraparound services, including case management and independence planning, to ensure long-term success.
Multi-pronged Approaches: Policy, Advocacy, and Service
Both Leslie and Bernadette advocate for a holistic approach to addressing housing for returning citizens. They emphasize the importance of intertwining policy reform with direct services to create sustainable change.
Leslie Credle [13:09]: "Justice for Housing is unique because we tackle housing discrimination from every angle—policy, advocacy, and service. Our 'Far From Home Report' with Harvard University provides 12 policy recommendations to dismantle discriminatory practices stemming from the 1994 Crime Bill."
Bernadette echoes this sentiment, underscoring the necessity of legislative action alongside community-based support systems.
Bernadette Butler [17:35]: "Our success stems from not only providing housing but also ensuring our participants have access to workforce development and technology training. It's about building a foundation for stability and growth."
Success Stories: Transformative Impact
The conversation highlights several success stories that exemplify the effectiveness of these programs. Leslie recounts the journey of Jose, a single father whose life was transformed through Justice for Housing.
Leslie Credle [23:05]: "Jose was released early from probation and now he lives in a three-bedroom apartment, spends quality time with his sons, and has been hired as a case manager at Justice for Housing. This year, Jose and other participants will become our first homeowners."
Bernadette shares a similar narrative about Joey, a substance abuse counselor who returned from a decade-long incarceration to continue his vital work within the community.
Bernadette Butler [26:32]: "Joey is invaluable to our team. He works directly with our participants, providing guidance and support from someone who has walked the same path. His presence exemplifies the positive change possible when individuals are given the right opportunities."
How to Support: Empowering Change
Stephanie guides listeners on actionable steps to support these initiatives. Both Leslie and Bernadette provide clear avenues for involvement, emphasizing the power of community engagement and policy advocacy.
Leslie Credle [23:05]: "You can support us by donating through our website at justiceforhousing.org, becoming a host for our participants, or advocating for our legislation, S878 and H1362, which aim to provide housing for returning citizens statewide."
Bernadette Butler [26:32]: "Consider becoming a host through Impact Justice or supporting us by changing hiring practices in your organization to be more inclusive of formerly incarcerated individuals. A simple handshake or smile can make a significant difference in someone's life."
Conclusion
The episode concludes with a heartfelt appreciation for the groundbreaking work carried out by Justice for Housing and the Homecoming Project. Stephanie commends the guests for their unwavering commitment and transformative impact on countless lives, inspiring listeners to take part in fostering a more inclusive and supportive society.
Stephanie Whittles Wax [31:14]: "Thank you for tuning in to this truly uplifting conversation with our wonderful guests, Leslie Credle and Bernadette Butler. Learn more about Justice for Housing and the Homecoming Project in the show notes."
Key Takeaways:
- Housing Stability: Essential for successful reentry and reducing recidivism among formerly incarcerated individuals.
- Holistic Approach: Combining policy reform, legal advocacy, and direct services creates a sustainable support system.
- Community Engagement: Hosting programs and inclusive hiring practices are vital in supporting reintegration.
- Success Stories: Personal narratives like those of Jose and Joey highlight the tangible benefits of these programs.
- Actionable Support: Donations, hosting, and advocating for supportive legislation are impactful ways to contribute.
For more information and to support these initiatives, visit Justice for Housing and Impact Justice.