Department of Justice Program Helps Ex-Offenders

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A program funded by a Second Chance grant from the United States Department of Justice is making returning home to Chicagos West Garfield Park neighborhood after incarceration less challenging for former inmates who often encounter the same social problems that may have caused them to be incarcerated in the first place.

Now, non-profit Bethel New Life on Chicagos West Side is providing a positive alternative. Ex-offenders residing in West Garfield Park are enrolling in the organizations year long prisoner re-entry program and learning job skills, computer skills, social skills, and financial literacy. In addition, participants are combating substance abuse and working one-on-one with a mentor. All of the mentors are formerly

incarcerated individuals who have created a new life for themselves.

Bethel New Life is now recruiting formerly incarcerated individuals to join the re-entry program on an ongoing basis. The program currently takes place at 4006 W. Lake Street on the corner of Lake and Pulaski, but the location is subject to change, according to a press release.

Eligibility requirements for the program require:

Applicants reside in Chicagos West Garfield Park neighborhood.

Applicants must be ex-offenders within the first year of their release. Currently incarcerated individuals can also apply if they will be released soon.

Applicants must be currently on parole or on probation.

Applicants must enroll in the program voluntarily from their own free will.

Sex offenders are not eligible for the program.

Other restrictions may apply.

All inquiries can be directed to Donna Germany at 773.826-8430 x 228 or dgermany@bethelnewlife.org.

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