CJM: Fire Recovery Update

Rebuild & Restore Campaign

Together, we rebuild what was lost.

In September, a fire severely damaged one of Criminal Justice Ministry’s (CJM) reentry housing properties — displacing residents, destroying essential furnishings, and leaving several units in need of repair.

The unit where the fire began is a total loss, and the surrounding and lower units — along with the building’s common areas — sustained significant smoke and water damage. These units had just been renovated and were a key part of CJM’s plans to expand housing capacity for justice-involved individuals returning home.

Working closely with our insurance partners, housing team, and finance staff, we are navigating coverage and renovation logistics. Even with this support, CJM faces substantial out-of-pocket costs to rebuild the damaged units and rehouse clients who were scheduled to live there.

Yet our commitment remains firm: we will restore these units and continue growing our housing capacity to meet the urgent need for safe, stable homes in our community.

So we are calling on our community to help. Your support of the Rebuild & Restore Campaign will directly fund the restoration of CJM housing units and help replace the essential items that make each apartment feel like home.



Every contribution — large or small — moves us closer to restoring safe, stable homes for our neighbors returning home from prison.


Rebuild & Restore Sponsors will be recognized at all CJM events and on our website through 2026 in gratitude for their support of CJM’s fire recovery and rebuilding efforts.


Volunteers & In-Kind Support Needed

We’re also seeking skilled volunteers and in-kind donations of materials to accelerate recovery.

  • Skilled Trades: Electrical, Plumbing, Carpentry, Finishing Work
  • Materials: Flooring, Drywall, Appliances, Paint, Trim, Doors, Hardware, and other finishing supplies

Interested?
Contact: Chad Hammons, Director of Housing at chadh@cjmstlouis.org


NAP Tax Credits for Local Businesses

If you’re a Missouri Business, your cash or in-kind donation (materials, supplies, equipment, or qualifying professional services) to CJM may be eligible for Missouri Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) tax credits — giving you a 50% credit against your Missouri state tax liability.

You can make a bigger impact at a low net cost — support equitable housing solutions and reduce crime by helping CJM restore and reopen units, while also receiving a meaningful Missouri tax benefit.

Want to use NAP credits for your sponsorship or in-kind donation of materials or skilled labor?
Email: funding@cjmstlouis.org and we’ll walk you through the simple process.