The F5 Project has announced a new monthly gathering and meal for individuals re-entering the Minot community.

The first Re-Entry Meal and Connection will be held on April 6 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Bread of Life Lutheran Church, 1415 17th Ave. SW. The gatherings will be held on the first Monday of every month going forward.

F5 Care Coordinator Jeannie Hochstrasser said the gatherings are meant to build a bridge between those re-entering the community, those who are currently or formerly involved in the criminal justice system, and many others who serve and support in the Minot community.

A similar re-entry meal event was first started in Bismarck through a partnership between Ministry on the Margins and Trinity Lutheran Church. Hochstrasser said F5 is looking forward to bringing the model to Minot and hope it will have the same positive impact here.

“As someone who once struggled with addiction, mental health challenges and criminal justice involvement, I understand how powerful positive relationships can be. Today, I have a meaningful and supportive relationship with my former probation officer and work closely with probation and parole in my current role as a care coordinator at F5 Project. I have seen firsthand how connection, trust and community support can change lives,” Hochstrasser said.