Michael Wilson's Homecoming Fund

In April, Michael Wilson will return home to his family, friends, and community in Jamaica after 25 years of incarceration in New York state prisons. We (Eleni, Drea, and Hart) have had the privilege of working with Michael as part of NYU Law’s Parole Advocacy Project. For the past year, we’ve worked closely with Michael to help him prepare for his parole board interview and now, his return home. It has been a joy to get to know Michael – his soft-spoken, thoughtful, and warm spirit emanated throughout our phone calls and visits.

All of the funds you contribute will go directly to Michael’s immediate needs, including housing, food, clothing/shoes, transportation costs, and personal hygiene items while he settles into his new life and restrengthens his connections with his family and community.

Michael is a beloved son, brother, nephew, and uncle whose community extends throughout Jamaica and the United States. He looks forward to returning to Jamaica and living with his father on his father’s livestock farm upon release. His aunts and uncles in Jamaica are prepared to help ease his transition home, and his mother, aunt, and cousins are also supporting him from the US. Michael is deeply motivated to make his family proud and to create a productive life for himself outside of prison. While incarcerated, Michael obtained his GED and became highly skilled in welding and small-engine repair. He looks forward to working on his father’s farm and saving money to open his own welding business. In his free time, he enjoys playing chess and reading fiction. We are confident that Michael will be a great asset to his community upon returning home.

In one month, Michael will be free for the first time since he was 22 years old. Coming home from prison poses unique and enormous challenges, especially after so long. Michael is extremely grateful for any support, and we thank all who donate to help him as he finally comes home!

Background images: Left photo: Michael with his sister and cousin; Michael at a family event.