Crossroads United Methodist Church led the way for a community collaboration and partnership that helped nealy100 people start clearing up their criminal records.
The Compton Church hosted the Fresh Start Expungement Clinic on Feb. 25, its second in the past two years, and has made the event a core part of its outreach.
“This type of community engagement is necessary and it is important that the faith community lead the way,” said the Rev. Adrienne Zackery, pastor of Crossroads UMC. “Our vision is to help transform the lives of thousands of formerly incarcerated person in need of a second chance.”
Zackery said the partnership with the city of Compton and the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles was critical because the organizations trained volunteer attorneys to assist with the record expungements. She also applauded the collaborative work that involved other ministries like Charles Gibson Ministries and the more than 40 attorneys and students who came from UC Irvine School of Law.
The day started with a hot breakfast and quickly moved into the business of clearing up Criminal Record Petitions and Prop 47 and Prop 64 applications. Also, live scan opportunities were available onsite for people who did not pre-register.
Organizers say another expungement clinic is being planned for June 2017.
Crossroads United Methodist Church is located at 2354 North Wilmington Avenue in Compton. To learn more, call (310) 639-3136.
