BRN maintains four major programs. These programs are free of charge within the first six months of release from incarceration for those with a sexual offense conviction. Click on each program below to learn more of the specifics for each.
Release Packs
Thanks to our friends at CITYPAK, we offer our clients a secure, durable, waterproof backpack upon their release. CITYPAKs are custom designed with the needs of the unhoused in mind – they are large and made from a durable ballistic nylon that allows them to withstand the elements. They also feature anti-theft webbing loops, multiple compartments, and an integrated rain poncho.
BRN is proud to partner with Hope & Comfort provide hygiene essentials for each backpack. Hope & Comfort is the only nonprofit in Massachusetts exclusively focused on the distribution of hygiene essentials to support health, dignity and confidence. Included in each backpack is: deodorant, shampoo, soap, toothbrush, and toothpaste.
Please consider a tax-deductible donation of to help make one of these Release Packs available to our clients!
Charlie Cards
For clients residing, working, and/or seeking employment in locations covered by the MBTA subway and bus system, BRN will provide a $50 Charlie Card during the initial six month period post-incarceration. Charlie Cards are not eligible on the MBTA commuter rail system, but reduced income tickets are available directly from the MBTA.
Smart Phones
An activated “smartphone” donated by T-Mobile is provided to each returning citizen with BRN paying for the first six months of service. During which time clients are encouraged to utilize one of the many programs and organizations we work with that will allow them to earn money to continue their phone service. Many of our clients have repaid BRN for this service, which we encourage when they become financially stable.
Benefits –
- Maintain crucial contact with their support network and family
- Setup appointments for housing, job interviews, counseling and probation
- Navigate an unfamiliar city
Please consider a tax-deductible donation to help make a phone available to one of our clients upon release. It costs us $210 per client to provide a phone and six months of free service.
Life Coaching
Dr. David is a returning citizen himself, holds two advanced graduate degrees, a master’s in social work and a doctorate in psychology. His areas of clinical expertise include anxiety, depression, working with the dually diagnosed chronically mentally ill, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Most, if not all, BRN clients are fraught with challenges and obstacles that are only faced by this specific population. These include being on the public sex offender registry with restrictions placed upon them by the courts, their probation officer, and/or state laws about where they can work, travel, and live.
BRN offers life coaching with a trained professional who himself has experienced life with a sexual conviction. Our life coach, Dr. David, will support BRN clients as they improve their lives by setting and achieving personal and professional goals. Dr. David provides guidance, support, and accountability to assist the client overcome obstacles and make positive changes.
Our life coaching services will increase the clients’ resilience to be able to face and overcome obstacles and setbacks, cope with the challenges presented, and adapt to new situations.
As a BRN client or family member of a client, you are welcome to utilize these services with a free consultation during the first six month of becoming a client. Contact BRN for the free consultation coupon code and use button below to learn more about and/or register to speak with Dr. David.
