Astor House is to provide a home for men recently released from prison, supporting their return to the community at a time when they have nowhere else to go, the Minister of National Security has said.

Michael Weeks said its goal is simple: help men rebuild their lives safely and successfully.

Renovation work on the property, located at 38 Union Street, Hamilton, has been completed and the final touches are being made before Bermuda’s dedicated transitional living programme for adult men in need of reintegration assistance becomes operational.

As its expected opening date this summer nears, members of the public have an opportunity to visit the property on June 25 at an open house event.

Astor House will be a structured and supportive bridge from incarceration to community independence, Mr Weeks said.

The programme offers temporary housing for parolees, case management, skills training, employment maintenance and pro-social community engagement.

Plans to convert the historical building into a transitional living facility were unveiled in March, while a grant of $317,275 was awarded to the charity Home last October to support the renovation of the nine-bed property.

Mr Weeks said: “This is a critical moment for the reintegration of men returning to Bermuda society.

“Across Bermuda, conversations about rehabilitation, re-entry and correctional reform are growing. People emphasise the need for community-based support for individuals leaving custody.

“Men on parole face challenges like housing insecurity, employment barriers, health needs and strained family relationships. Without structured support, these challenges can disrupt stable housing.”

Kim Wilkerson, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, said Astor House directly addresses these barriers by offering a dedicated parole officer, safe, stable, supportive housing, 24/7 on-site support and structured accountability.

She said it will also provide individualised case planning and life‑skills development, employment preservation and community reintegration support, including mentoring, peer support and restorative engagement.

Ms Wilkerson said: “Astor House’s model of 'housing first' demonstrates that effective reintegration enhances public safety.

“When returning citizens receive the tools, structure and consistent guidance needed, they are more likely to secure employment, rebuild healthy relationships and contribute positively to Bermuda.”

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, added: “Reintegration extends beyond providing housing after incarceration. It involves ensuring individuals return to the community with structured support, accountability and meaningful opportunities for change.

“Astor House exists because the success of individuals post-release strengthens the safety, health and resilience of Bermuda.”

Community partners are being sought to collaborate by providing mentorship, workshops, community service projects and donations of household goods or supplies.

• To attend the open house, RSVP in advance by calling 599-9936. For further information contact Denise Carey, the chief executive and executive director of Home, via e-mail at denise@home.bm