Mecklenburg Sheriff Office launches transition house 

MECKLENBURG COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

The interior of The Sheriff’s House, a transitional facility that helps the formerly incarcerated move toward independence and sobriety.

There’s a new asset to help the formerly incarcerated adjust upon their return to society.

The Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office recently launched a transitional home to support people prepare for independent living. The home is believed to be the first such facility established by a sheriff’s office in the Carolinas. The facility, called The Sheriff’s House, is funded through a Bureau of Justice assistance grant to address gaps in services for residents leaving the jail, particularly those who want treatment for drug use.

“This home represents more than just a place to stay, it represents hope, responsibility and a second chance,” Sheriff Garry McFadden said in a statement. “The Sheriff’s House is for individuals who have put in the work, shown real change and are committed to continuing that progress as they return to the community. Today, the first person moved into the house and shared that they ‘never expected it to look this nice.’” 

Admission is limited to people who meet department eligibility requirements and demonstrate a commitment to sobriety, rehabilitation and overall readiness for reentry. Along with housing, residents will also receive substance use treatment, peer support and wraparound services designed to help them maintain sobriety and build a stable foundation.

Residents are required to complete regular check-ins with a peer support navigator and receive support from a team that includes a licensed clinician, peer support services and MCSO’s reentry team. In addition to housing and treatment support, residents can also access essentials like cell phones, bus passes and rideshares that remove barriers to  reentry needs like appointments, employment or treatment.

The accompanying Post Release Resource Center is the support hub for residents to get help from MCSO reentry staff, access referrals and transition to permanent housing. 

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