First Stop Reentry Program
The First step in a returning citizen’s second act!
Support First Stop Reentry's Mission
First Stop Reentry's mission is to assist men and women who are reentering society, while informing society about ways they can assist in making these returning citizen’s transition smoother. This assistance will raise the probability that returning citizens have successful transitions.
Who are we? We are the first stop in your second act.
My name is Blair Garner. I am the founder & president of First Stop Reentry. When I was released in 2023 after 21 years of incarceration, there were no services available for me in Suffolk County New York. I obtained a BA from Bard College's BPI program in addition to many other skills and accomplishments that should have made me easily employable. Unfortunately, that was not the case. This reality led me to form this organization. We give returning citizens basic necessities: counseling and referrals to agencies that can help them with employment, housing, education and training. My goal is to provide a care package of toiletries, underclothes, grooming equipment and instruction on how to get settled into freedom.
Our Vision
Our vision is to create a world where every person from prison has the basic necessities, guidance and support for them to make a successful reintegration back into society. We believe that by investing in this marginalized group, we are investing in the future of our society.
Our Approach
First Stop Reentry, we believe in not only supporting returning citizens while they achieve various successes, but celebrating each accomplishment with them. From getting their identification to passing their permit test, to passing the road test and getting their first car.
Support First Stop Reentry Today
Programs, Training and Employment Opportunities
In 2024 First Stop Reentry and Garner Legacy Consulting partnered with Wil’s Disinfectant Service to provide jobs for over 20 formerly incarcerated men. The men worked with the NYC DOT maintaining highways and other landscaping duties. The collaboration was a success. WDS has agreed to continue the workforce relationship with First Stop.
Volunteer
Join our team of dedicated volunteers and make a positive impact in your community. Whether you have a few hours or a few days to spare, we have a role for you.
(Manning a food pantry for “Mentors on the Move“ in Queens.)
Partnerships and Volunteers are a key Component of First Stop Reentry’s success.
Learn about the programs we offer and how we're working to make a difference in the lives of those we serve. From educating returning citizens, to reffering them to the appropriate services. we're committed to improving our community. All of First Stop Reentry’s partners and volunteers are committed to building a large resource pool of agencies and organizations to cover the variety of services our members need in order to make a successful reintegration.
Events
We accept invitations to attend your event to spread our message, share our mission and continue to build with other organizations that are working to better our society. We also extend an invitation to various, organizations to speak at our events as well. Lets connect!
Please donate to help us reach our goals
Ninety percent of all donations goes towards purchasing items for care packages and to subsidize the cost of services provided. Each member receives a 60 day supply of cosmetics and toiletries, Undergarments, footwear, grooming equipment and seasonal outerwear. We are grateful for donations of any size.
