Dismas Home of NH gets major funding boost to help build new Rochester facility

From left, Dismas Home team members Colleen Brough, Joyce Kelley, Cheryll Andrews, Santina Thibedeau, Persephanie Lesperance (Courtesy photo)

NASHUA - A portion of gaming revenue proceeds from the Nash Casino will enable Dismas Home of New Hampshire to expand its services and support the opening of a second home for women in recovery who need to rebuild their lives after being involved in the court system.

As the nonprofit marks its ten year anniversary, Dismas Home Executive Director Cheryll Andrews says the $161,000 investment will help with the construction of a new 20 bed home in Rochester.

Says Andrews, "Many women who have experienced trauma develop substance use disorders and end up incarcerated for nonviolent crimes. Our model of care enables these women, including veterans, to live in a supportive home where they can participate in therapy, learn life skills, continue their sobriety, and restore their mental health, which positions them to be productive, stable and available for their families and employment."

Andrews says their unique approach has proven results with a 90% success rate for long term recovery. Dismas Home NH is the only program of its kind in the state.

Dismas Home's original residence is located in Manchester and serves eight women at a time, who live in the home for up to a year. The model of providing 24/7 clinical care, housing, and vocational training for women will be replicated at the new location at 6 Healthcare Drive in Rochester set to open in early June. The new residence will add 20 beds and is in response to growing statewide demand for full continuum of care under one roof due to the success of the combined 90 day and transitional living programs.

Says The Nash General Manager Eric Althaus, "We are grateful for the opportunity to support Dismas Home NH. Their work has set the standard of care for women who need a second chance and we are committed to partnering with charities that make a difference in the lives of New Hampshire residents."

According to state law, over 30% of gross gaming revenue must be donated to nonprofit organizations and another 10% to the state Education Trust Fund.