REFINING THE MODEL

In an effort to further distill and refine the Bodega Model and apply it to our work nationally, Family Justice will continue to research, plan, and implement program enhancements at our direct-service learning centers, La Bodega de la Familia and Family Bodega. A wide range of partnerships at a local, state, and national level also inform our work.

Partnering with New York City Housing Authority
In March 2007, Family Justice opened a direct-service center for residents of two Brooklyn neighborhoods, Brownsville and East New York. Family Bodega is located at NYCHA's Unity Plaza houses and offers family case management, walk-in referrals, and access to computers for job searches or writing a résumé.
Contact: Jenn Batterton.

La Bodega has a satellite office on New York's Lower East Side, in the nearby Jacob Riis Houses, a NYCHA residence designated for seniors. The office provides easier access to support for families—and especially seniors—who live in public housing and have a loved one under community justice supervision or are at risk, due to issues such as addiction or mental illness. more info
Contact: Tina Santiago.

Developing a Family-Focused Neighborhood Mentoring Program
Supported by the Jacob & Valeria Langeloth Foundation, Family Justice is developing a mentoring program in which families in the same neighborhood mentor one another. We take a strength-based approach to mentoring so as to nurture, rather than challenge, the supports most families already have. We identify and work with sustainable mentors in a neighborhood that is vulnerable to serious health-related issues, including mental illness.
Contact: Jenn Batterton.

Family-Focused Employment Initiative
After someone leaves prison or jail, one of the biggest challenges is to find lasting employment. In collaboration with government and community-based organizations, we are developing strategies to assist family members who hope to secure and maintain jobs, especially those individuals who are reentering the neighborhood after being incarcerated, as well as people who have been on probation or parole for a longer period.
Contact: Tina Santiago.