For over 30 years, Dismas House has been a beacon of hope for former prisoners in greater Worcester, providing an important platform for healthy reentry from prison to those most in need of recovery, decent work, and housing. Dismas’ trademark family-style atmosphere creates the right environment for former prisoners to successfully become whole with our communities. A small, but dedicated staff, interns from area colleges, and committed community volunteers join with former prisoners as they work to rebuild their lives. A blend of foundation support, a small amount of government funding, and private donations help sustain Dismas programs.
The Dismas Family Farm provides housing and services to homeless former prisoners on a 12-bed, working farm in Oakham, Massachusetts, where residents learn critical vocational skills to reintegrate positively and meaningfully with society. Residents and staff work together to tend the farm and grow food for our summer CSA and local food pantries. Each year, the farm welcomes community members to celebrate the work of the farm at our annual fall festival and Christmas tree sale. The residential program revolves around the Dismas motto ‘Dismas is family’, and community volunteers join residents for family-style dinners.