Redemption Housing at ten years: A community building a movement
Redemption Housing, a West Philadelphia organization providing transitional housing and faith-based support those returning from incarceration, helping them rebuild their lives through community, stability, and structured programs. Brotherhood, dignity, and genuine support create lasting transformation.
Six in 10 inmates released in Pennsylvania are rearrested within three years, according to a report from the state’s Department of Corrections.
But in West Philadelphia, Redemption Housing is working to change that statistic.
Redemption Housing, a transformational reentry organization, provides faith-based programming and community support for those coming out of incarceration. The nonprofit owns two homes in West Philadelphia, and offers safe, stable and sober living arrangements.
The nonprofit, which just celebrated its 10th anniversary, has worked with Everence for most of the last decade.
“We’ve been with them since almost the beginning and have been able to watch their growth and see how things have changed,” said Randy Nyce, Managing Director of our Souderton, Pennsylvania, office.
As Redemption Housing has grown and its needs have changed, the nonprofit has leaned on Everence for support, guidance and financial services, prioritizing the deep relationship the two relationships have formed.
“What I love about Redemption Housing is not only their mission – because I do love that – but they're partners in a real sense of the word,” added Franco Salvatori, Stewardship Consultant.
The appreciation goes both ways.
“I am so grateful and I know our leadership team and board have been so truly grateful for Everence,” said Rev. Dr. Lori Banfield, Redemption Housing’s Executive Director. “For their expertise, for their humility and for their missional alignment.”
Dr. Lori noted that she appreciates not just how Everence supports the nonprofit, but how it supports Redemption Housing residents through financial wellness education and banking through Everence Federal Credit Union.
“That’s one of the unique things about this partnership,” Franco said. “This is what Everence was created to do – serve organizations, as well as individuals.”
Giovanni Paulino-Santiago, Member Relations Manager at our Kensington branch, has been working with Redemption Housing residents on their financial journey. Helping the men learn to budget and understand the significance of credit scores has been a key part of his work.
At first, Giovanni made trips to Redemption Housing’s homes to provide financial education to its residents. While he still does this, a handful of the residents now make the trip from West Philly to EFCU’s Kensington branch, where they hold accounts.
This relationship has allowed Giovanni to make great connections with the Redemption Housing residents. He said one resident calls him weekly – something Giovanni deeply values. Getting to connect with Redemption Housing residents – and truly get to know them and their faith journey – is so meaningful, Giovanni said.
“Whatever circumstances they’re coming from, there are still resources available to help them get back on track,” Giovanni said. “We’re here to help.”