Bissonette House (formerly known as Hope House) is a community living environment for men recently released from prison. The environment is homelike, where the staff and residents share in the upkeep and operation of the house. The program provides a supportive living environment, room and board, and a 30 to 90 day curriculum. It is a transitional program offering case management counseling, support groups, AA and NA meetings, and DV classes. It is a drug and alcohol free environment.

Bissonette House: Call 716.856.6131 for more information.
Bissonette Support Group: Call 716.892.8224 for more information.
Bissonette House Domestic Violence Group: Call 716.892.8224 for more information.

Dave's story:

My name is Dave and I was released from prison in February 2008. I joined the Bissonette House, which was one of the smartest decisions I have made.

During my time in prison, I lost my friends, family, money, everything. So when I got out of prison after four years, I had nothing to hold onto, except for the people at Bissonette House. It took me a while to warm up to everyone. I didn't realize at first that they were there to help me.

I was a loner all of my life so being part of a group made me feel uneasy, I didn't know if I could trust anyone. I slowly realized that the people at Bissonette House were like a family, I could trust and depend on them. Sister Mary Anne at Bissonette has been like a mother to me and I owe so much to her, she saw me through my darkest times.

I have had health problems since being out of prison and I wouldn't be able to get through them without the help of my friends from the program. I volunteer every day, I feel I need to be there and give something back after they have given me so much. I joined Men's ministries and would like to go back to school one day and get a degree in counseling so I can help others who were in my situation.