Criminal Justice Ministry

Transportation is often one of the biggest barriers to stability and opportunity.

Thanks to the generosity of ManchesterUMC Bike Rehab Ministry and the dedication of volunteer Tim, CJM residents are gaining access to reliable transportation that can help them get to work, appointments, and other essential destinations. In total, 20 refurbished bikes will be donated to CJM residents—16 men's bikes and 4 women's bikes.

Tim recently delivered bikes for residents in CJM's housing program, and CJM resident Bogart is one of the new bike owners who will benefit from this generous donation effort.

Every success story starts with a foundation — and for so many returning citizens, that foundation is safe, stable housing.

Jim’s story is a reminder that reentry is about more than simply leaving incarceration behind. It is about having the opportunity, support, and community needed to truly rebuild a life. Through CJM’s housing-first approach, clients are not only provided with a place to stay, but with the tools, guidance, and encouragement to create long-term stability and independence.

Today, Jim is working, pursuing a degree in cybersecurity, and building a future he once thought was out of reach.

His words say it best:
“They genuinely want to see you succeed and I think that’s hard to find today.”
At CJM, we believe housing is more than shelter — it is the cornerstone for healing, growth, and successful reentry. Every apartment, every case manager, every partnership, and every welcome home helps create a stronger future for the individuals we serve and for our community as a whole.

Read Jim’s full story and explore more stories highlighting the impact of CJM and the lives being transformed through supportive housing and reentry services: https://www.cjmstlouis.org/news/press/

Last Month our Canvas & Keys Gala brought together an incredible community of support, with more than 220 guests in attendance — including over 100 individuals who engaged with CJM’s mission for the very first time.

We are grateful to our sponsors Jon Dobson & Stephanie Dobson, Neighbors Credit Union, Midwest BankCentre, and the Daughters of Charity, Province of St. Louise for helping make this evening possible.

Thank you as well to our emcee, Tony Messenger, and to our valued partners who continue to believe in this work — Father John Vogler, of the , Betsy Reznicek of , and Kelly Po***ck of the Berges Family Foundation.

Events like this are more than a single evening — they expand awareness, deepen connections, and strengthen the impact of our mission moving forward. 📸

Join us today for Give STL Day!
This year, we’re expanding two programs focused on supporting children and young adults impacted by the justice system—because we know how important it is to show up early with the right support.

Hope in Motion provides transportation for children and caregivers to visit incarcerated parents in Missouri institutions — restoring connection, strengthening families, and supporting healthier outcomes for children.

Foundations Rising A strong start for young adults returning home. Young adults leaving incarceration or facing homelessness are at a critical crossroads. Without stable housing and support, too many are pulled back into cycles of instability. This program provides fully furnished, move-in-ready housing Wraparound case management and life skills support Pathways to employment, education, and independence Focused on individuals 25 and under, this program gives young people the foundation they need to build a stable, self-sufficient future.

This GiveSTL Day, your gift can strengthen these programs. Together, we can support young people, strengthen families, and invest in brighter futures.
Learn more about these programs — bit.ly/4drnKcc

2 more days until GIVE STL DAY — Early Giving is Now Open!
CJM is excited to grow two new initiatives supporting children and young adults impacted by the justice system.
This Give STL Day, we’re inviting you to be part of building the futures of the next generation.
Learn more about these programs — Link In Bio | bit.ly/4drnKcc

Canvas & Keys was a powerful night of celebration, storytelling, and impact.
Thank you to everyone who helped bring this incredible evening to life.
Take a look back at a few special moments—and stay tuned for more photos coming soon.

📸 by Route 3 Films

Tomorrow is the day — our Canvas & Keys Gala is finally here! ✨
We’re so excited to celebrate this special evening and share it with our community. If you’re unable to join us in person, you can still be part of the excitement by checking out the amazing prizes available in our Live and Silent Auction.

Be sure to place your bids before the Silent Auction closes at 7:15 PM tomorrow evening. We’ll also be sharing live updates once the Live Auction has officially closed, so stay tuned right here for all the highlights and winning moments.

Thank you for supporting this meaningful event with us — we can’t wait for tomorrow! 💙
Silent & Live Auction Link: bit.ly/4cEkw3p

***SNEAK PREVIEW!***
Tune in SUNDAY night at 7PM to see a teaser version of our brand NEW FILM! The full FILM will premiere at the Canvas & Keys Gala on April 23rd. 📽🍿🎬