Over the past two years, a group of committed members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at St. Mary's in Delaware, OH and St. John Neumann in Sunbury OH, had a dream. As they helped men returning from jail or prison in Delaware County, they struggled finding them housing upon their release. This group of committed Vincentians (what we call members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul), would often have to call other shelters in Newark, Columbus, or Dayton to see if shelter was available. Often, it wasn't.

And even when it was, transportation back to Delaware County so that the returning citizen could meet with his probation officer, became an insurmountable problem. In a community that has worked so hard to alleviate homelessness for women and families, this just couldn't continue. This group became more committed than ever to making the shelter and access to necessary supportive services a reality.

Grants  We are pleased to share that Safe Harbor, in collaboration with us and other community and correctional partners, submitted an application to the US Department of Justice in early May.  We are seeking federal Second Chance Act Community-Based Reentry Program grant funds to implement the Reentering Individuals from Corrections to Home (RICH) program across the grant’s 3-year lifespan. Partners include the Delaware County Jail, Delaware County Probation Office, Southeast Healthcare, Family Promise, PACE Mentoring Services, and the Delaware-Morrow Mental Health & Recovery Services Board.  We hope to hear we have been funded in September.  We continue to investigate and submit requests to be considered for other grants. 

Budget projections  Our budget projection is $150,000 - $250,000 to open a shelter.  We continue to look at properties, but have not located one yet.  We are seeking a property that can house 5 men, and also includes a dining area, laundry, and office space.  If you know of a property that may meet these requirements, please let us know!