Prison to public housing project to be tested in CNY

3-18-17 New York:

Syracuse one of three cities across New York state participating

For Bill Simmons, the Executive Director of the Syracuse Housing Authority, saying "yes" to Governor Cuomo's newest pilot program was a no-brainer.

"I was the first one to raise my hand because we've always had a history of working with individuals who have criminal backgrounds, in the Housing Authority," said Simmons.

The project mirrors a similar program offered by the New York City Housing Authority.

"It was very, very successful. The program created an opportunity for individuals who were coming out of incarceration to reunite with their families," said Simmons.

In Syracuse, twelve formerly incarcerated people will be screened and referred by the Department of Corrections.

"The referrals are coming directly from the parole system right out of incarceration and then if they're good candidates and a good fit for the program, then they will get these case management services," said Simmons.

The program aims for long-term stability beyond housing...and that's where PEACE, Inc. comes into play. ..Continued.. by Olivia Ugino