Senator April Baskin Launches “Breaking Bread” Dinner Series for Formerly Incarcerated Community Members

New York State Senator April N.M. Baskin is launching the Breaking Bread dinner series, a new initiative designed to support formerly incarcerated individuals as they transition back into the community through fellowship, meaningful conversation, and access to valuable resources.

The first dinner will be held on Thursday, August 27, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, 701 E. Delavan Ave., Buffalo. The evening will feature a complimentary hot buffet dinner, opening remarks from Arthur A. Duncan II, Esq., and a keynote conversation with Hon. Craig D. Hannah, Associate Justice of the Appellate Division, Fourth Department, New York State Supreme Court.

The Breaking Bread Dinner Series is centered on connection, support, and community building. Each gathering is intended to foster dialogue, strengthen relationships, and provide individuals returning home with opportunities to connect with organizations that can assist with employment, legal services, child support case advisement, health care, education, workforce development, and other essential resources.

Organizations scheduled to participate in the first event include the Buffalo Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO), Buffalo Prenatal Perinatal Network, Erie County Department of Health, Erie County Reentry Opportunity Center (ROC), Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, Northland Workforce Training Center, and WNY Heroes Inc.

Additional dinners in the series will be held on September 24, October 22, and November 19. Breaking Bread is open to formerly incarcerated individuals who were released from jail or prison within the past 10 years. There is no cost to attend, and dinner will be provided. Please RSVP to Senator Baskin’s office by calling 716-826-2683.