The journey of rebuilding lives post-incarceration poses numerous challenges, from securing stable housing and employment to battling societal stereotypes.
In Scarborough Village, The Second Chance Foundation is on a mission to assist formerly incarcerated women in reintegrating into society through various initiatives such as a food bank, thrift store, and mental health support programs.
A recent 2025 report from the Canadian government revealed that 30% of individuals leaving incarceration face homelessness within the initial two years of release. Specifically, federally sentenced women are more prone to substance abuse and mental health issues.
Founder of The Second Chance Foundation, Beverly Dwyer, emphasizes the difficulties of reentering society post-parole, stating, “Parole is harder than incarceration…a lot of women released from prison are left without proper support.”
Dwyer further highlights the lack of assistance for these women, leading some to reoffend in order to return to a familiar environment.
A 2021 study by the John Howard Society of Ontario pointed out that 70% of those leaving correctional institutions in Ontario lack a solid plan or support system for their reintegration.
Lee, a former inmate now volunteering at The Second Chance Foundation, shares her struggle of finding employment due to the stigma associated with having a criminal record.
Recognizing the social and economic hurdles faced by formerly incarcerated women, The Second Chance Foundation is dedicated to fostering community connections and aiding in their societal reintegration. The organization offers opportunities for involvement such as volunteering at the food bank and thrift store, alongside organizing community events like back-to-school barbecues and holiday toy drives.
In August of this year, the foundation initiated a women empowerment program led by a certified psychotherapist to equip these individuals with essential skills and strategies for self-improvement and effective communication.
Looking forward, The Second Chance Foundation aims to enhance the well-being of formerly incarcerated individuals in Toronto by sending care packages to transitional housing and resuming mental health programs in the upcoming year.