Homecoming Project for returning prisoners expands to San Francisco

November 12, 2025

Impact Justice and the San Francisco Public Defender's Office are bringing the Homecoming Project, a reentry housing program, to San Francisco after successful implementation in Alameda, West Contra Costa, and Los Angeles counties. The innovative six-month initiative addresses the critical housing shortage faced by formerly incarcerated individuals by matching them with homeowners who have spare rooms, providing hosts with $1,550 monthly stipends in exchange for offering stable living arrangements. The program has achieved remarkable results across existing locations, with over 200 participants all completing the program, 98% securing employment or education, and zero returning to prison.

Who is affected

Formerly incarcerated individuals returning from state prisons who need housing
Homeowners and hosts in San Francisco with extra bedrooms willing to participate
Clients of the San Francisco Public Defender's Office Freedom Project
Communities in San Francisco, Alameda County, West Contra Costa County, and Los Angeles County
Over 200 past program participants from existing locations
Specific individuals mentioned: host Memi Vaughn and past participant Marcelino Clemente

What action is being taken

Impact Justice and the San Francisco Public Defender's Office are expanding the Homecoming Project to San Francisco
The SF Public Defender's Office is working closely with the Homecoming Project to build a roster of San Francisco residents willing to host
The program is currently accepting applications from eligible hosts with extra bedrooms
Homeowners are providing living space to formerly incarcerated individuals for six-month periods in exchange for $1,550 monthly stipends

Why it matters

This program addresses a critical barrier to successful reentry, as stable housing is fundamental to allowing formerly incarcerated people to secure employment, address health issues, and acquire new skills. People returning from prison face a ten times higher risk of homelessness compared to the general public due to limited affordable housing options and discrimination based on criminal records. The program's proven success—with 100% of participants completing the program, 98% gaining employment or education, and zero recidivism—demonstrates it creates safer communities while providing economic benefits to hosts and offering a pathway for participants to rebuild their lives. The initiative creates a "triple win" by benefiting returning individuals, participating homeowners who earn income, and communities that become stronger and safer.

What's next

The Homecoming Project is building a roster of San Francisco residents willing to host
The program is accepting applications from eligible hosts with extra bedrooms
Interested parties can visit https://impactjustice.org/homecoming-project for more information

Read full article from source: San Francisco Bay View National Black Newspaper