In September, a fire severely damaged one of CJM’s reentry housing properties — displacing residents, destroying essential furnishings, and leaving several units in need of repair.
The unit where the fire began was 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.
Because of the generosity of our community, we have been able to move quickly in this recovery and bring these units back toward readiness. Soon, they will once again provide the safe, stable housing people need to rebuild and thrive after incarceration.
Our housing team has been hard at work restoring what was lost. The damaged areas have been cleared, new walls have been rebuilt, and we are now completing the finishing touches — installing windows, flooring, and the final interior details that will soon allow these homes to reopen.
One of the most meaningful moments of this process has been seeing the CJM community step in directly. Steve F., a resident who was personally impacted by the fire, volunteered to help paint one of the restored units. Watching Steve help rebuild the very space that will soon welcome someone else home was a powerful reminder of what CJM stands for — restoration, dignity, and people supporting one another as they rebuild their lives.
While much progress has been made, the work is not yet complete. CJM continues to cover costs associated with restoring these homes and replacing the furnishings and essential items that make each apartment feel like home.
You can help finish the work.
Your support of the Rebuild & Restore Fire Recovery helps ensure these units return to service quickly — providing safe, stable housing for the individuals who need it most.