The day after being released Gerry Thomas receives $500 cash from Proving Innocence. "We almost always give cash.", Bill Branham of Proving Innocence shares. "The reason? They don't have a bank account, yet, and wouldn't be able to cash the check. We know it's a drop in a bucket in terms of the needs they have, but we have pinpointed a crucial time: when they first get out. The Walking Free Fund gives them something they can call their own. It's not a loan. There are no hoops or strings attached. It's up to them, and often with the counsel of a supportive family, to decide how it will be spent. It gives them a little dignity to be able to pay for essential needs, like a driver's license, without having to borrow the money."
Branham also shared about the spiritual bond he often feels when visiting an exoneree when they have first been released. "'Grateful' is the word that comes to mind. Despite all their suffering, most have a deep sense of gratefulness. When we walk into their lives at that point, we see first-hand the human spirit that overcomes whatever is thrown at it."
You can see all the Walking Free Fund recipients over the past two years on our website here. Below are the last three we have given to.
