Omaha neighbors share thoughts on new transitional home for formerly incarcerated
Facility works to transition inmates who have served their time
OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - A facility for those re-entering society after incarceration is preparing to open in northwest Omaha.
The facility will occupy a house in the Country Club Oaks neighborhood, near 60th and Sorensen Parkway.
Joleen Dohm is ready to welcome those moving in -- but she admits she had concerns at first.
“We get this notice like ‘Oh my gosh, look what’s coming in our neighborhood,’” Dohm said. “I’m calling all the neighbors like ‘You’re not going to believe this.’”
The house will become a transitional living home for men and women coming out of correctional facilities. Most have experienced mental health issues, trauma or substance abuse.
Dohm said she had a change of heart about her new neighbors after meeting with Tessa Domingus, program coordinator with the Mental Health Association of Nebraska.
“I understand the hesitancy of neighbors,” she said. “I think that’s natural and I think that’s okay. I think that the important part is that we come into these conversations with an open heart and an open mind and willing to hear from each other. I want to hear what their concerns are.”
Domingus says the home will be modeled after one that opened in Lincoln in 2015. It will be peer-supported and provide numerous programs targeting mental health, basic needs, job-seeking documentation, and housing. She says the home will be staffed around the clock, and they’ll work closely with parole and probation officers.
She also says it isn’t for everyone.
“You have to want to be here,” Domingus said. “That’s our number one requirement. You have to want this type of support in your life, with the goal of having a successful transition back into community.”
Dohm is willing to give them a chance -- a sentiment shared with neighbor Nate White.
“I’m glad you all found seven rooms in the house for people to move in,” White said. “They can come see their kids and you all can teach them how to do things the right way.”
The home is slated to open this May.
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