Bridgeport nonprofit marks 41 years of helping former inmates RISE to new heights

Billie Lemon said the RISE program saved her life.

Frank Recchia

Aug 31, 2025, 10:47 PM

Updated 3 hr ago

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Family Reentry was filled with the sounds of celebration Sunday as the Bridgeport nonprofit marked its 41st anniversary.
"This is a really big deal because Family Reentry and its RISE Program make sure women who are coming home from prison stay on track and never go back," said state Sen. Herron Gaston. "It impacts the lives of folks who are coming home, as well as the public at large."
Billie Lemon said the RISE program saved her life.
"When I came home from prison after 26 years, the RISE Program helped me find a job, housing and my way back to a normal life," Billie said. "It saved my life."
For more on Family Reentry, visit the nonprofit's website.