The space includes offices and meeting areas. 

PITTSFIELD, Mass.— Second Street Second Chances has expanded its program space to meet the demand for post-incarceration services.

The ribbon was cut Monday on a larger and revitalized space at the former Berkshire County Jail and House of Correction. Established in 2022, "2nd Street" has assisted more than 1,000 individuals with medical and mental health, housing, job training, legal services, and more.

"This milestone is not just a reflection of the crucial services and the need for these services in our community but also a testament to the compassionate, non-judgmental care that our staff here delivers to each and every one of the people that walk through our doors," Executive Director Lindsay Cornwell said.

The nonprofit's space has expanded from 1,500 square feet to 4,600 square feet, with two community navigator offices in the "rotunda" or main area, an office for private meetings, a large room used for workshops and meetings, and common spaces.

Sheriff Thomas Bowler said the numbers speak for themselves, comparing the program's 11 percent recidivism rate to the county's 36 percent. He emphasized the importance of having supports in place immediately upon release from jail.

"The first 72 hours are the most critical to reentry success. This is the time when a plan is established and important appointments and meetings occur, or when it could potentially fall apart," he said.

"Whatever the need, our navigators work with a vast collaboration of resources that has been built to find a solution. It may be as simple as a ride to an interview or as difficult as finding affordable housing in today's economy. Our navigators go above and beyond to do whatever is needed."

The Berkshire County Sheriff's Office provides the space for free, including utilities and maintenance.  Bowler announced that at the beginning in 2025, the office will take on the majority of 2nd Street's operational expenses.