As a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Last Prisoners Project (LPP) has been a leading voice calling for immediate decarceration efforts and safety measures for incarcerated communities. This work has led to the release of hundreds of at-risk individuals, securing safety and hygiene resources for facilities, and the development of the LPP compassionate release program which matches individuals seeking compassionate release with pro bono attorneys. 

At the LPP they utilize a three-pronged approach to securing FULL freedom for the communities they  serve. Through intervention, advocacy, and awareness campaigns the LPP works to redress the past and continuing harms of these unjust laws and policies. 

In their first year of operations, LPP was able to implement direct services in three states. They also engaged in legislative advocacy, urging state lawmakers to pass criminal justice reform measures such as clean slate initiatives as well as "Ban the Box" initiatives and ensuring that those with cannabis offenses on their record have equal access to employment.

In the upcoming year, LPP will expand these initiatives to at least six new states that they have determined are most viable for these programs. They are currently fundraising to secure an operational budget of $756,375 and if we raise $1.3 million we can scale these programs to six additional states in 2021. With your support, we can continue to create lasting change for every cannabis prisoner.

Consider a gift today to help them reach their goal! 

​Today, the Vermont House of Representatives passed S. 234, a bill that would require the automatic expungement of all criminal records for past low level cannabis offenses. The bill would also decriminalize possession of cannabis in amounts that are up to twice the legal limit for adults and reduce some cannabis penalties. S. 234 will now return to the Senate for concurrence before it heads to the governor’s desk. We have been working with our partners for years to expand post conviction relief in Vermont and we celebrate this important reform.  
#PennywiseFoundation #CriminalJusticeReform