Help RENEW Lives

RENEW (men) and RENEW Esther’s Journey (women) are programs to help indigent prisoners about to bereleased, remain out of prison and contribute positively to society. To curb homelessness and instability as people leave our correctional facilities and to help prevent recidivism (returning to prison), it is imperative that their identity (birth certificate, social security card and state ID Card) is secured. To address homelessness (a prime factor causing recidivism), Catholic Charities, besides assisting with the above mentioned documents, will offer assistance for the first month’s rent in a halfway house or any other safe temporary residence. The assistance given coupled with a month’s engagement of positive reinforcement dialogue, offer the newly released person a chance to renew their lives and in many cases be away from people and circumstances that could definitely impede their progress. South Carolina’s recidivism rate is at 25.7%. RENEW and Esther’s Journey have engaged 623 participants. As of 6/22/18 only 11 have returned to prison; this translates to a 1.77% rate of recidivism. Previously, this program was funded by a grant. The grant has been depleted and Catholic Charities is in need of financial assistance to continue this much needed program. The funds expended per month, per person, amount to approximately $150 and we provide service for up to 30 plus clients per month. PLEASE help us to provide service to people in need, fulfilling our social outreach mandate as Catholics: “Whatever you did for the least of my brothers and sisters you did for me.” Matthew 25:40 Donations – (checks only) are payable to "RENEW/JOURNEY Catholic Charities" and sent to: Catholic Charities - 1427 Pickens Street – Columbia, SC 29201 Thank you and God bless you!!