A New Way of Life is a safe house that women can come to after they're released from prison in South Los Angeles. It's a place for women to detox the trauma, the torture of incarceration, be welcomed and embraced and live and begin their new path to - if it's recovery or receiving mental health services, go back to school, get their children back.

The quote by Susan Burton, "A New Way of Life is a safe house that women can come to after they're released from prison in South Los Angeles. It's a place for women to detox the trauma, the torture of incarceration, be welcomed and embraced and live and begin their new path to - if it's recovery or receiving mental health services, go back to school, get their children back," emphasizes the importance of providing a supportive environment for women who are transitioning from prison back into society. A New Way of Life is described as a safe house that offers a space for healing from the emotional and psychological trauma of being incarcerated. Burton highlights that women often need a comprehensive support system to help them recover and reintegrate into society, especially after experiencing the harms of incarceration.

Burton stresses that for many women, the journey post-incarceration involves more than just physical release; it requires addressing the mental health challenges that often arise from the torture of prison life. Trauma can manifest in many ways, and A New Way of Life offers services like recovery programs, access to mental health care, and opportunities for personal growth. Burton’s words highlight the need for holistic support that includes education, emotional healing, and the chance to rebuild relationships with family, including children.

The origin of this quote comes from Burton’s own work as a social justice advocate and founder of A New Way of Life, an organization that helps formerly incarcerated women transition back into society. After spending time in prison herself, Burton became an advocate for reentry programs and services that focus on healing and empowerment for women affected by the criminal justice system. Her mission is to provide women with the tools and resources to reclaim their lives and break the cycle of incarceration.

Burton’s quote underscores the critical role of community-based programs in supporting women after prison, offering them a safe space to heal, receive mental health services, and rebuild their lives. It highlights the intersection of trauma recovery, recovery from addiction, and family reunification, which are essential for a successful transition into society and the restoration of dignity and opportunity for these women.