Many people leaving the prison system aren’t equipped to deal with the challenges of modern life. Sadly, all too frequently, many people who had served prison terms were turning up on our doorstep wearing their prison greens with no clue of where else to go, or how to navigate the world in front of them. Creating Futures was established in response to community needs and developed to address the over-representation of Aboriginal people in the criminal justice system. The program is designed to help and empower Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people who have recently been released from prison, and give them every chance to create a positive future for themselves.
"Many people exiting custody feel ill-equipped or overwhelmed. We believe that with the right support, people exiting custody can successfully transition into the community and give back to their community."
- Melissa Merritt, Creating Futures Program Manager
A guided 12-month journey of transition
As part of the program, we equip people with a structured 12-month plan which includes bail, pre and post-release support, plus diversionary options. We believe that, by connecting with people 12 weeks before their release, we can significantly increase their chances of successfully integrating back into the community.
Our team provides practical support in the following ways:
- Obtaining essential identification documentation
- Setting up bank accounts
- Organising referrals to specialised services
- Ensuring our clients can access cultural health and wellbeing initiatives
93
People Supported to Date
23
Previously homeless clients housed
91% Aboriginal
75% Male, 25% Female
11% re-offending rate
vs. 51% NSW Aboriginal prison population re-imprisoned
Cultural Health & Wellbeing Camp
In August 2018, we co-facilitated the first Cultural Health & Wellbeing Camp – Walu-Win Gundyarri, providing young Indigenous men with the opportunity to reconnect with themselves and their culture.
“Being out here and learning culture and learning, and being away from phone reception and cities and being away from so many people, you gain a headspace where you learn who you are and who you want to be.” – Uncle Waylon, Wakagetti Indigenous Corporation
Find Us
Open Monday to Friday 9:30am – 5pm.
Phone: 02 9318 0539
Address: Corner Elizabeth & Allen Streets, Waterloo, NSW, 2017
Artwork created by local Aboriginal artist, Linda Jackson.