Crosspoint Program Addresses Housing and Employment Barriers for Formerly Incarcerated in San Antonio

Crosspoint, a San Antonio-based nonprofit, operates residential reentry centers designed to help individuals transition from prison back into community life. With facilities housing 85 men and 35 women, the program provides a structured environment where residents can work, reconnect with family, and secure independent housing. The center, located at 301 Yucca St., acts as a "decompression chamber," preparing residents for release by addressing needs such as counseling and family reunification.

A primary focus is overcoming barriers to employment and housing, which are often complicated by felony records and associated stigma. Crosspoint Director of Operations Elisa Lopez-Canseco notes that the program's accountability, including GPS monitoring and verified work attendance, can make residents attractive to some employers. However, President and CEO Annette Rodriguez highlights that background checks for jobs and housing frequently impede progress, despite the vital roles formerly incarcerated individuals play in the local workforce.

Crosspoint collaborates with over 100 community partners, including Goodwill, to connect residents with job training and housing assistance. This network helps individuals like John Anthony Uriegas-Montez, who secured a full-time job and an apartment after completing a logistics certification through Goodwill. For developers and housing providers, understanding these challenges underscores the need for policies that support equitable housing access and workforce integration for all community members.