U.S. recidivism rates have remained high for the last decade, and a large number of offenders released from state prisons return to the system within three years. Christian New Creation’s stellar recidivism rate (2.57%) versus the federal rate (20.1%) and state rate (27.5%) comes down to lives being transformed by Christ. For men who stay in our program over 90 days, the recidivism rate is just over 1%.
No longer a burden to society, these men are maintaining employment, reuniting with family and deepening their relationship with Christ. When asked about their time at Isaiah House and Providence House, the recurring theme is thankfulness. In turn, we pass along that gratitude to those who have supported us over the years.
While we have served over 1,500 men since our founding in 2007, Matthew 25:14-30 tells us that it is not enough to maintain the status quo. We are reminded that to whom much is given, much is expected. In that spirit, the Christian New Creation board has developed a 3-phase plan to update our facilities over the next 5 years so that we can serve a greater number of men seeking a Christ-centered transformation. We are happy to announce that we are now launching the “Funding Our Future” capital campaign for Phase I.
Phase I: Gathering Space
Projected Cost: $ 65,000
Currently, aftercare counseling is done off-site, which requires our men to miss work and be out at late hours. We are currently crowding into our 300 sq. ft. kitchen for our program’s AA meetings, Bible studies, training classes and other group gatherings.
With your financial help, we can convert our garage into a multipurpose room that will add 800 sq. ft. of gathering space to Isaiah House for in-house aftercare counseling, personal finance and computer classes as well as AA meetings and Bible studies.
We have received estimates for $65,000 to complete this project and meet the City of Houston’s requirements.
Next Steps
In Texas, the total inmate population stands at around 150,000. Around 65,000 adults get released every year. The need for faith-based, transitional living facilities and associated services for ex-offenders in Texas far outweighs current capacities. In 2019 there were over 150 transitional living facilities in Houston, today there are less than 35 because of the requirements and restrictions by the City of Houston. There is a great need for these types of facilities. We have worked with an architect and have plans drawn up for 4 additional 15-bed houses on the Isaiah property.
Next Phase: Preparation of Property and Construction of Four 15-Bed Houses
Projected Cost: $ 3,353,000
(Includes $85,000 for Architecture/Engineering and $250,000 for Civil work on property for drainage, retention, additional parking, and covered outside area.)
About Our Program
We are a faith-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a safe, structured, drug free environment to allow our residents every opportunity to become productive citizens. We are self-supportive and do not receive any type of government support. The first steps of our program are to help residents connect with a Christian community of their choice, find employment and secure proper identification documents. The average length of stay (LOS) of residents who complete our program is 150 days. Our current facilities can house 38 residents, but our plan is to expand that capacity as soon as our resources allow.
How to Help
Lives are restored day-by-day, and funds are raised dollar-by-dollar. We and our residents are appreciative of donations of any amount. You can use the address below to send a check to:
Christian New Creation Inc.
P.O. Box 11134, Houston, TX 77293