Everyone deserves a second chance. We’re here to help.
Low-income loans. Community Support. Success.
Who?
In The Wall Street Journal on October 31, 2020, it was reported that “Each year, more than 600,000 people deemed to have paid their debt to society are released from US prisons, but the financial consequences can follow them long after.” Given higher incarceration rates for people of color, these financial hardships perpetuate an unjust system. FAIR serves all people who are recently released from jail and looking to rebuild their lives.
What?
Many formerly incarcerated people have debts related to their incarceration such as attorney and court fees in addition to personal debts like medical bills, past child support, and motor vehicle fines. Traditional bank loans are not available to people with a criminal record making it difficult for them to pay their debts. FAIR helps those formerly incarcerated open bank accounts and provides low-interest loans so they can look to the future with hope.
Where?
FAIR focuses our efforts on the Cape and Islands in southeastern Massachusetts. Staff from the Barnstable County Correctional Facility Re-entry Program help identify inmates from our region who have roots in the community that will support their re-entry.
When?
Re-entry can be an incredibly stressful time for people trying to begin their lives again. They may face broken relationships, debt, and insecure housing situations. Offering financial support during this time of transition is a critical factor in helping to prevent future incarceration.
How?
Our volunteers receive referrals from the re-entry program at the Barnstable County Correctional Facility and this begins our conversation. Each potential client is treated with dignity and respect as we seek to understand the financial needs, determine loan amounts, and establish a repayment plan.
Why?
All human beings deserve to be treated with respect. FAIR believes that people who were formerly incarcerated should be given a second chance once their debt to society is paid. Without access to financial vehicles like bank accounts and loans, the obstacles to a successful re-entry can be overwhelming.