This project will provide backpacks filled with essential items needed upon release from jail or prison. As a formerly incarcerated individual I know firsthand the importance of having basic items upon release so we are including a cell phone with 3 months of service included, gift card for uber/Lfyt rides, bus and train passed, preloaded employment and housing information. The backpacks will also contain basic cosmetics like toothbrush , deodorant , soap , new socks and other basic essentials.
Charlotte NC ranks close to last in economic mobility and struggles to move people from poverty to self sufficiency .Those who have been impacted by the criminal justice system and have a disability are the most vulnerable and experience chronic homelessness the most. The high cost of housing in Charlotte along with a having a background makes it almost impossible to move this population forward. We plan to provide backpacks with essentials to help with this process.
Our project will help those we serve avoid returning back to jail or prison by providing them with resources that they currently do not receive. Our essentials in the back pack which includes information for housing and employment automatically reduces the chances they will return.
The long term impact will provide a better pathway to self sufficiency for those who we serve, having stable housing , employment and healthcare are essential to true self sufficiency.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
