By Chinta Strausberg, Chicago Crusader
Supporters of Dr. Willie Wilson praised the humanitarian for stepping up to help mend a “broken” jail bond system. Wilson bonded free 110 former inmates, in time for them to enjoy Thanksgiving with their families, and a full course meal.
Wilson’s message to them was clear, that they “make sure they don’t go back to jail and to make sure they work hard.” He urged those he bonded out of jail to be “first class citizens and get out there and make it.” He also urged them to register to vote and to run for office.
Thanksgiving Day, Wilson and all 110 former detainees arrived at New Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church, headed by Rev. Dr. Marshall Hatch.
After giving them $200 each, Dr. Wilson told them he would see them again in 30 or 60 days, to give them more money, as much as $150 apiece.
The former inmates enjoyed a full course meal including turkey, sweet potatoes, greens, and a salad.
Dr. Wilson will meet with the non-for-profit organizations on December 5th and with Governor Bruce Rauner about the introduction of a bill that would allow people to get out of jail on an I-bond rather than languish in jail for lack of bond money.
Cook County Commissioner Richard Boykin complimented Wilson’s efforts. “Dr. Wilson stepped in the gap of a broken bond system in Cook County and bailed out more than 100 non violent pre trial detainees so they could be home with their families.”
“He is connecting the people he bailed out to additional resources to help stabilize their lives. His actions remind us all that God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things,” said Boykin.
Agreeing with Boykin, Pastor Ira Acree, spiritual leader of the Greater St. John Bible Church said “This humanitarian effort by Dr. Willie Wilson has truly touched my heart. We are so blessed to have a person of his caliber and with his extraordinary generosity among us …..Greater St. John Bible Church and I were super excited to add our financial support toward such a worthy cause.”
Dr. Wilson will introduce his bail program nationally at the first of the year. “We are going to hold a fundraiser and take on more projects and hope we can bail out up to 2,000 detainees in 2017,” he said.
Wilson urged everyone to contribute to his fundraiser, Drwilliewilsonfoundation.org, so he can meet his goal of releasing more detainees from jail. To text to give, call 312.818.4975.
