Dismas House of Massachusetts Inc.

Dismas House of Massachusetts Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting homeless former offenders through transitional and permanent housing programs. The organization aims to reconcile these individuals with society by creating a supportive community environment.

Mission

The mission of Dismas House is to provide a family-style transitional and permanent housing environment that helps former offenders reintegrate into society. This includes advocacy and innovative strategies to build a statewide safety net, focusing on energy efficiency and social support services.

History

Established in the early 2000s, Dismas House has been operating for over 30 years, serving the greater Worcester area. It has become a significant platform for healthy reentry, assisting former prisoners in recovery, employment, and housing.

Programs

Dismas House operates several programs aimed at reducing recidivism and improving the lives of residents. Notable programs include:

• Dismas Family Farm: A residential organic farm where residents live in a historic farmhouse. The farm integrates agriculture, animal husbandry, vocational training, and mental health support, providing a comprehensive environment for recovery and growth.
• Transitional Housing: Offers a family-style atmosphere with accountability and support tailored to each resident's needs.
• Street Outreach and Advocacy: Engages in community-wide efforts to improve services for former offenders and homeless individuals.

Financial Overview

In recent years, Dismas House has reported significant revenue primarily from contributions, with a smaller portion from program services. For example, in the fiscal year ending June 2023, the organization reported $2.06 million in revenue, with contributions accounting for 96.5% of this amount[1].

Governance and Recognition

Dismas House of Massachusetts Inc. is recognized by Charity Navigator with a 4/4 Star rating, highlighting its strong performance and transparency in governance[4]. The organization is led by a team of dedicated officers and relies heavily on community support and volunteer engagement[2][3].

Community Involvement

Dismas House benefits from a network of over 200 volunteers from local churches and professional associations, contributing to its sustainability and effectiveness in serving former offenders and homeless individuals[2]. Community support is crucial for its operations, with donations of goods and services helping to maintain its programs[3].