President Obama praised the work done by a Newark facility to help former prisoners become productive members of society
NEWARK -- President Obama on Monday praised Newark's Integrity House for the "good work" it has done in helping former prisoners, especially those with substance addiction problems, return to society.
"It's a model for the good work that is being done sporadically around the nation," Obama said before beginning a closed-door meeting at the center. He said his trip was designed to "highlight" successes. "We look forward to seeing more success."
Obama was accompanied by Robin Shorter, director of the Women's Outpatient Programs and director of the Women's Halfway House. He met with Daryl Rose, who has been released from prison and now lives in the facility, and two other residents, Stephanie Luna and Sharon Boatwright.
RELATED: 5 things you need to know about Obama's trip to Newark
The stop was the first of two on the president's trip to Newark to focus on criminal justice issues. Later, he was scheduled to deliver an address on the subject at Rutgers-Newark.
Obama arrived Monday afternoon and was greeted by U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Rep. Donald Payne Jr. (D-10th Dist.), Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and Elizabeth Mayor Chris Bollwage.
Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JDSalant. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.