Astor House is a community-based transitional residence for men on parole, supporting their return to the community. It is Bermuda’s dedicated transitional living programme for adult men in need of reintegration assistance.
The collaborative housing program, coordinated by the Ministry of National Security, the Ministry of Justice, the Minister of Youth, Social Development, and Seniors, and the registered charity HOME, is set to host an open house for the public on Thursday, 25 June 25 at 11 am.
Astor House, located at 38 Union Street, Hamilton, is a structured and supportive bridge from incarceration to community independence. The programme offers temporary housing for parolees, case management, skills training, employment maintenance, and pro-social community engagement. Its goal is simple: help men rebuild their lives safely and successfully. This reduces the chance they return to the justice system and strengthens Bermuda’s families and neighbourhoods.
The Minister of National Security, The Hon. Michael Weeks, JP, MP, stated, “This is a critical moment for the reintegration of men returning to Bermuda society.”
Minister Weeks added, “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.”
The Attorney -General & Minister of Justice, Senator, The Hon. Kim Wilkerson, JP, stated, “Astor House directly addresses these barriers by offering:
· Dedicated Parole Officer
· Safe, stable, supportive housing
· 24/7 onsite support and structured accountability
· Individualised case planning and life‑skills development
· Employment preservation
· Community reintegration support, including mentoring, peer support, and restorative engagement
Minister Wilkerson continued, “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.”
Minister Tinee Furbert, Ministry of Youth, Social Development, and Seniors, commented, “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.”
Denise Carey, Executive Director of HOME, stated, “Bermuda is known for its compassion and community spirit. By extending this support to individuals returning from the Department of Corrections, we not only transform individual lives but also strengthen families, reduce harm, and build a safer island for everyone. Additionally, we seek community partners. We invite local businesses, service clubs, faith institutions, and community organisations to collaborate with us by providing:
· Mentorship
· Skills‑building workshops
· Community service projects
· Donations of household goods or supplies
To attend the Open House and learn more about Astor House, please RSVP in advance by calling 599-9936. For further information or questions, contact Ms. Carey via email at denise@home.bm.
