Howard House

Howard House is a 16 bed community residential center in St. John’s, Newfoundland, for adult men or individuals identifying as male on day parole, full parole, statutory release, a temporary absence, or a probation order. We accept referrals from the Correctional Service of Canada and the Provincial Department of Justice and Public Safety. All residents have to go through a review process by an Admissions Committee in order to be accepted into Howard House.

General Program Description

Howard House began operation in April 1977, and it provides a wide variety of support services to its residents. Howard House residents are expected to use their time constructively by participating in programming and/or pursuing their educational or employment goals. Each resident is assigned a counsellor who assists them in meeting this expectation and who provides necessary support through individual counselling. Those residents who require specialized intervention in such areas as mental health, addictions, employment, interpersonal violence, parenting skills, or sexual behaviour conduct will be referred to the appropriate programs.

Howard House allows three levels of privileges based on individual performance. All residents’ levels are reviewed on a weekly basis and are based on the resident’s compliance with the conditions of their release, fulfillment of house expectations, attitude, relations with staff and other residents and progress in relation to case plan.

The process of community re-integration is fostered by providing residents with assistance in acquiring income, medical services, community connections, budgeting, housing, and employment searches.

Staff Resources

Volunteer Program

Volunteers provide a vital role in the operation of Howard House. The Volunteer Program offers an introduction to the field of community corrections and more specifically to a residential, halfway house facility. The program utilizes on average 20 volunteers.

Some of the volunteer roles include: providing a pro-social support to the residents, assisting staff with supervision and the daily operations of the program, fundraising, and assisting with the recreation program. In addition, volunteers help residents with resume writing, job search, and seeking accommodations. Finally, under the supervision of the office manager, volunteers also participate in such annual events as the JHS Christmas Party for disadvantaged children.

The qualifications of a volunteer are: you must be at least 19 years old, you must be able to provide a code of conduct, an enhanced security clearance, and a four month commitment to volunteer four hours weekly.