Former gang members are being given work to help out the community, thanks to an initiative by Habitat for Humanity Bermuda.

The group has quietly teamed up with the anti-gang programme Team Street Safe to fix up homes for needy families, free of charge.

Habitat for Humanity Bermuda operates “under the radar most of the time” to respect its clients’ privacy, according to chairman Sheelagh Cooper — but the latest projects were worth sharing.

“TSS is a new organisation for young men who have been involved in gangs but want to leave that lifestyle behind and move in a positive direction,” Ms Cooper said.

“That’s often easier said than done, as many of these individuals can only travel to certain parts of the Island, and consequently are at a real disadvantage when it comes to finding a job.”

Two major renovations have been completed so far this year, with a third underway.

Ms Cooper said it was “somewhat of a deviation” from the usual work done by Habitat in its 14-year history on the Island: traditionally, the recipient of the job repays the cost of the project.

“We have discovered, however, that those families who need help the most are those least likely to be in a position to repay,” she said.

“Rather than pass them by, we’ve altered our approach to what Habitat International refers to as the ‘brush of kindness model’ — meaning the work done is all pro-bono and focuses on small-scale repairs and renovations, as opposed to full home builds.”

For clients of Team Street Safe, the work couldn’t come at a better time.

“They’ve come to our organisation to try and better themselves — some we assist with getting their GED, some with housing,” said TSS street worker and workforce superintendent Hewvonnie Brown said. “One major need is actually getting a job.”

Some clients are able to find employment with established businesses through the organisation’s work readiness programme.

However, any link with the Island’s gang factions makes it difficult for clients to travel around Bermuda.

“This worked out perfectly — Habitat finds the work, and we assist Habitat with the manpower,” Mr Brown said.

Professionals help train clients, while Team Street Safe searches for an appropriate location to work.

“It’s a balancing act. We don’t discriminate with our clients. West through east, we look at where they can go and we manage it like that.”

Projects are organised with the help of Ms Cooper, a member of the TSS board as well as the Coalition for the Protection of Children, and TSS director Chris Crumpler. The group also engages in trash removal and community outreach.

“We’ve done a few odd jobs for regular residents of Bermuda. But once the initiative took off, we figured why not take on jobs for Habitat?” Mr Brown told The Royal Gazette.

“What a wonderful idea ­— it helps Habitat cut back its finances, and it allows us to continue with the work.”

TSS doesn’t reveal details of its clients, but Mr Brown said the jobs give workers “a sense of security”.

“They feel like they’re contributing the society, helping people and making a difference. They feel that somebody is buying into them, showing concern and trying to assist these guys. They’re very diligent, they take pride in their work, and they’re very respectful and grateful to us as an organisation.”

To donate to the initiative or to learn more, contact habitat@northrock.bm — or visit the site www.teamstreetsafe.com.