Partnership provides resources for ex-offenders looking to better their lives
by Shawn Nowlin
Debates about ex-offenders reentering society is a constant topic of discussion. Whether it be finding public housing or consistent work, ex-offenders face many problems as they acclimate themselves back into society.
Local leaders and community residents gathered Wednesday, Sept. 30, in front of God’s House Baptist Ministry (GHBM) at 3601 Melrose Ave. N.W. to proudly announce an initiative that will serve as a transitional housing program for offenders. The property is a duplex adjacent to the church.
Notable faces in the community present included: Delegate Sam Rasoul, City Councilman Sherman Lea, Sr., Angela Penn, vice pres. economic & real estate development, TAP and Rev. Floyd Davis, pastor (GHBM). The seeds for the initiative were planted when Rasoul broached the topic at a town hall meeting hosted by God’s House.
“When you have someone coming out (from incarceration) it’s difficult for them to find a job and they don’t qualify for any housing support, how do they stabilize their lives,” said Del. Rasoul. “Many times their lives are not stabilized and that’s part of why more than two thirds end up right back in the system.”
One serious look at the data and it becomes abundantly clear that there are simply too many people serving sentences that are not warranted.
“For me I was a problem child–my parents didn’t know how to handle me…I faced a lot of challenges as a kid growing up on so many spectrums, “said Corbin Prydwen an ex-offender who is now a contractor and realtor, licensed in Virginia. “It truly wasn’t until my third incarceration that life and reality happened.”
Twenty years ago Corbin openly admits that he couldn’t envision doing what he is doing today as a productive citizen. Heavy into drugs and burglaries, he accepted the fact that his life would get much worse before getting better. It took countless attempts but eventually Corbin got to a point where his judgement was once again more balanced. Corbin’s story provides both inspiration and perspective for those currently serving time behind bars.
Religious affiliation will not be a factor regarding who is allowed to participate in the program. “Whether you are Muslim or Christian they don’t care…God’s House just wants to make a difference,” Corbin said.
Extremely popular among his constituents since he founded God’s House in 2004, Pastor Floyd Davis also addressed those from the community who came out in full support with his wife First Lady Dr. Lajuana Davis by his side. “We believe in forgiveness…we’re extremely excited to be able to give those who need a second chance,” he said.
Everyone involved with the new project is excited about the possibilities as the congregation plans to cover the estimated $40,000 project cost. Donations are welcomed. The program will serve up to five people at a time and is specifically for men, no government funds will go towards the housing and agencies like Virginia Cares and TAP will work with God’s House to provide tenants with their services.
