In Vermont, the number of people either in jail or on furlough, probation or parole has increased from around 7,500 in 1994 to close to 12,000 as of 1999. With the cost of incarceration at around $27,000 per person, we need viable alternatives. Clearly, Dismas House is a cost–effective way to address this problem.

Many ex-prisoners have no secure home to return to, inadequate employment preparation and opportunity, and a negative self-image.  The likelihood of the repeating of crimes is great, particularly at the time of transition, and the resulting cost to the community and to themselves and their families is high.  In fact the crime repeat rate in Vermont exceeds 50% and places a great burden on a prison system that is already overburdened.

"We were inspired to start a Burlington Dismas House after visiting Dismas Houses in Nashville, Maryville, Menphis, and Belfast. It is an effective, life–giving model that brings stability to former prisoners in Vermont"

Senator Rita Whalen McCaffrey

Preparing for the Halloween Party