Nearly one million people are released from California prisons and jails every year. While many have a place to go, they don’t always have a ride there.
The Anti-Recidivism Coalition’s Ride Home program is helping formerly incarcerated people transition back to society with a ride to their approved transitional housing, along with a meal of their choice, a new outfit, a cellphone and toiletries. By pairing them with drivers who are also formerly incarcerated, the program aims to continue mentorship and relationship-building even after the ride is over.
“You’re going to get the support, you’re going to get the resources, but ultimately, you’re going to get an opportunity to transition back into the community safely,” said Ride Home founder Carlos Cervantes.
In July, I rode with Cervantes as he gave a ride home to Pedro Gonzales after serving 24 years at a correctional training facility in Soledad. “I was happy when I heard he was coming to get me,” Gonzales said in Spanish. “I said, ‘Finally, it’s happening.'”
Learn more about Gonzales’ journey in the video above. Find out more about the Ride Home program and other Anti-Recidivism Coalition services here.
