A safe and affordable home is essential for human survival and dignity. Upon release from prison, women identify housing as one of their most urgent needs in order to successfully re-enter their communities. Individuals with past incarceration records face significant barriers to housing access and are at greater risk for homelessness due to stigmatization, policies barring them from most federal housing assistance programs, and the challenges of finding employment due to their criminal records.

My Sister’s House, owned and operated by Tried By Fire Inc. in New Bern, NC, will create a stable, secure, and supportive home for women during the first 30 to 90 days after incarceration. The organization is transforming a donated house in need of extensive renovation into a warm, welcoming place for transition. LS3P is assisting with a range of services including code studies, construction documents, interior design, and hands-on volunteer work during a series of workdays.