Terrence moved into the Academy, often referred to as the Castle, earlier this year. He settled in almost immediately after his release, eager to start a new chapter after spending nearly 30 years in prison. Before coming home, Terrence had heard about Fortune and its housing facilities, and he believed that the Castle would be an excellent steppingstone for his reentry into society.
Fortune’s Emergency and Transitional Supportive Housing Program at the Castle provides a rehabilitative community for people returning from incarceration. Residents receive support for their various needs, including gaining and maintaining stable housing and employment, substance use treatment, financial planning and management, and family reunification.
Before moving in, Terrence completed a phone interview, answering questions about his plans upon release, personal goals and programs he participated in while incarcerated. These questions helped identify Terrence’s ideal roommate, and he is grateful for the friendly relationship they have developed.
“They took into consideration who I was and who I would work well with as a roommate before they decided what room to place me in. The person they put me in the room with did 37 years in prison. We have a lot of similarities and suffered the same oppressions, so having someone to relate with made things a bit easier for me.”
Living at the Castle for six months now, Terrence is able to reflect on the caring and uplifting community he found in other residents and Fortune staff members. He shared that the Castle’s staff, including case managers and residential aides, have created a safe and welcoming space for residents.
The case managers are always willing to assist or answer any questions, and they check in with Terrence regularly to ensure he is doing well. They remind him to attend the mandatory meetings at the Castle and to keep in contact with his parole officers.
The Thursday night meetings at the Castle have quickly become essential in Terrence’s routine. They act as a check-in for the residents to express their concerns, connect with their neighbors and seek guidance from others.
Although the weekly meetings are mandatory for Castle residents, they are a small ask for Terrence, who sincerely appreciates Fortune’s support. He values the feeling of community present at each meeting between residents, staff members and former residents who still attend. There, Terrence can connect with people who can relate to his experiences. He emphasized the incredible value of feeling understood by his community.
“When I went to sign up for a bank account, I had to let them know that this was my first bank account, and that I had been in prison since I was a child,” Terrence shared. “I’m just returning, and I sometimes need people to talk to me like I’m still a child. The Castle has been refreshing because I’m in a place where I don’t have to constantly explain myself. They already understand.”