GEO Reentry program supports Berks Community Action Program to feed homeless

Staff and participants from the ADAPPT reentry program in Reading, Pa., capped off a summer of hard work at a local pool by preparing food for local homeless at the venue.

Participants and staff from GEO Reentry Services’ Alcohol & Drug Addiction Parole & Probation Treatment (ADAPPT) program joined representatives of the Berks Community Action Program (BCAP) recently to help feed the homeless at the College Manor Pool. The event follows months of community service at the pool site, where program participants had volunteered to complete construction, patching, painting, cleaning and a kitchen makeover over the summer.

ADAPPT is a residential reentry program located in Reading, Pa. The program provides transitional housing, treatment, training and connections to local resources that help individuals successfully reintegrate to community life from the criminal justice system.

The event drew more than 100 individuals from three local shelters, including Hope Rescue Mission, Opportunity House and Safe Berks. ADAPPT participants assisted in setting up the tables and stands, prepared and served the food, and cleaned up when the event was over. The ADAPPT program staff and participants have a close relationship with the city and commit to many community service projects for local organizations during the year.

“We are proud to provide opportunities for community service at ADAPPT,” said Michael Critchosin, Facility Director. “Community service supports the GEO reentry programming we provide by creating opportunities for reentrants to give back to society, to experience the rewards of positive actions, and develop prosocial skills by working with others at all levels of society.”

Magisterial District Judge Tonya A. Butler and BCAP Coordinator Patti Wright also joined the community service event.