Dismas House of St. Louis

Dismas House of St. Louis is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing transitional services and support to individuals reentering society after incarceration. Founded in 1959 by a Jesuit priest, Father Charles “Dismas” Clark, and Morris Shenker, a Jewish defense attorney, it is recognized as America's first residential reentry center for ex-offenders.

History

The organization was established with the goal of helping offenders transition back into society. Father Clark and Morris Shenker collaborated to start the facility, which was originally located in a former school building. Over the years, Dismas House has evolved from a religiously affiliated entity to an independent secular organization, maintaining its commitment to rehabilitation.

Mission and Services

Dismas House operates as a Residential Reentry Center (RRC), providing essential services to individuals completing prison sentences. Its mission is to empower clients with the skills and resources necessary to lead productive lives in the community. Key services include:

• Employment Assistance: Helping clients secure employment opportunities.
• Supervision & Monitoring: Providing 24-hour supervision to ensure client safety and compliance.
• Recreational Services: Offering leisure activities to promote mental well-being.
• Pass Privileges: Allowing clients to gradually reintegrate into the community under supervision.
• Community Support: Engaging with local communities to foster a supportive environment for reentry.

Funding and Operations

Dismas House derives its income primarily from contracts with the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. In recent years, the organization has been awarded significant contracts to continue operating as a Residential Reentry Center, underscoring its role in the criminal justice system.

Impact

Since its inception, Dismas House has assisted over 10,000 individuals in their reentry journey. It remains a pioneering force in reentry services, providing comprehensive support to help clients address their physical, mental, spiritual, and psychological needs.

Recent Developments

In 2024, Dismas House was awarded a new five-year contract by the Federal Bureau of Prisons to operate its Residential Reentry Center. This continued support highlights the organization's effectiveness in providing transitional services for justice-involved individuals.

[1] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/430746021 [2] https://www.dismashouse.net/about/our-history/ [3] http://www.dismashouse.net [4] https://www.dismashouse.net [5] https://www.dismashouse.net/current-news/