Narrative: Unfortunately, my experience with the halfway house was not a good one. I received no assistance from them and to top it off, felt pressure every day to find work and when I did I was shocked, no pissed, at the fact that they were taking 25% of my check. Mind you, my first job was at a Subway so I wasn’t making much, so saving money was almost impossible because I had to purchase my own clothes and hygienic items. I honestly thought things would be better at the halfway house and that was my mistake. I made the mistake of thinking I had freedom and could do more things but in truth it was just like being on lock down with a work furlough.
Directives: Every halfway house is different but they also have a few things in common that you should know and understand. First and foremost, the Department of Corrections is paying the halfway house for your bed. Based on their specific agreement with the DOC the halfway house is obligated to provide you with basic services such as shelter and food. Some provide additional services such as job search and guidance. Please contact your institution counselor or case manager to request a copy of the halfway houses manual, a copy of a visiting list to mail to your family, and the number of your parole officer.
Section Goals
☐ Get halfway house manual
☐ Get copy of visiting list
☐ Get Parole officer contact information
The halfway house manual will give you an idea of what type of assistance to expect and will allow you to get to know their policies and procedures. For example, some halfway houses will not allow you to leave the house until three business days have passed; you have attended an orientation, and have obtained your I.D. (See I.D. page 12).
Do not count on the halfway house staff to initiate, organize, or complete anything for you. Understand that they are officially obligated to assist you but most of the time they are just there to watch you. You must stay on top of things yourself and make sure that they not only provide you with what it is written in their manual but assist you with your goals. Getting your parole officers contact information is vital for this very reason because if they do not assist you it is up to you to call the parole officer and request a transfer or his/her assistance to accomplish what the halfway house cannot or will not.
The following is an itemized list of things you may need for the halfway house:
☐ Toothpaste/toothbrush ☐ Soap
☐ Underwear ☐ T-shirts
☐ Sweat suits or shorts ☐ Sneakers
☐ TV& CD player ☐ Business Suit
Below are some Bridgeport Locations:
Isiah House (Females) Isiah House II Isiah House III
112 Clinton Ave 120 Clinton Ave 341 Clinton Ave
Bridgeport, CT 06605 Bridgeport, CT 06605 Bridgeport, CT 06605
203-367-9440 203-549-0018
Maple Street House Union House Mary Magdalene House
575 Maple Street 276 Union Ave 405 Clinton Ave
Bridgeport, CT 06608 Bridgeport, CT 06607 Bridgeport, CT 06605
203-335-8867 203-610-8099 203-330-0884