Women’s Housing Project Overview

In December of 2010, Bridges of Iowa opened the Women’s Transitional Housing Project. This is a long-term faith-based reentry program for women involved in the criminal justice system as a result of alcohol or drug problems. The Bridges Women’s Housing Project, unlike our men’s program, is not a substance abuse treatment program. Women referred to Bridges of Iowa are expected to have completed drug treatment and should be in the action or maintenance stage of their recovery. Bridges of Iowa women will actively work with local churches, volunteers, and 12-step support groups through mentoring and sponsorship programs. This mentoring begins while in our reentry program, but is expected to continue as she transitions into the community of work, family, and friends. Our hope and our commitment is that every Bridges of Iowa client will be given the support and direction needed to begin their own "Spiritual Journey" and change their lives for the better. Bridges of Iowa is a faith-based program, but it is not necessary to be a "Christian" or have any affiliation with any organized religion to be accepted and welcomed into our program.

Once the women have been accepted to the Transitional Housing project, they will work on re-entering society. This will include re-establishing healthy relationships with their families, becoming familiar with their neighborhood and establishing trust with the Bridges of Iowa staff as they begin to experience the freedom their release offers.

The women will work with the Bridges of Iowa Employment Coordinator on development of a resume’, an appropriate job search itinerary, solidifying job search skills and ultimately placement in an appropriate position that will allow them to become financially stable. In addition to finding employment, each woman will work to establish individualized financial goals and payment plans within the budget that their job affords.

Their time in the Transitional Housing Project will be determined by their individual plan in accordance with the terms of their release and success in the community.