New trauma center opens in Downtown Brooklyn for formerly incarcerated, survivors of violence

""You can get money back, you can get clothes back, you can get all the material things back - but...you can't get your time back," said Matos."

""In many cases, recidivism is like ridiculously high because a lot of us aren't given the resources that are needed," said Matos."

""People that are dealing with some type of legal issues have some type of trauma in their past that are driving or at least partly responsible for the legal issues that they're facing," said Chattergee."

A trauma recovery center opened at the Center for Community Alternatives in Downtown Brooklyn. The center provides free, trauma-informed care for survivors of physical violence, partner or family abuse, and people affected by incarceration. Services include individualized therapy, clothing, job assistance, mentorship, and support groups. The program emphasizes addressing underlying trauma that often contributes to legal issues and substance use rather than focusing solely on the crime or addiction. Formerly incarcerated participants, including Johnny Matos who battled opioid addiction, mentor others and receive support to lower recidivism risk and rebuild lives. By combining practical material assistance with trauma-focused mental health care, the center seeks to prevent relapses into criminal behavior and substance dependence. Participants can access individualized care plans tailored to their histories and needs.

Read at News 12 - Default