T.I. Bails Out 23 Nonviolent Offenders on Easter
T.I.'s mission to assist nonviolent offenders caught up in the system became a reality on Easter Weekend.
On Sunday (April 21), 23 people—seven women and 16 men—were bailed out of DeKalb County Jail in Georgia after Tip, Scrapp Deleon of VH1's Love & Hip Hop and New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Ga. joined forces to bail out the group of nonviolent and first-time offenders.
On Sunday (April 21), 23 people—seven women and 16 men—were bailed out of DeKalb County Jail in Georgia after Tip, Scrapp Deleon of VH1's Love & Hip Hop and New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Ga. joined forces to bail out the group of nonviolent and first-time offenders.
"It's almost like finally meeting the good Samaritan–somebody who you don't know that you didn't see coming," senior Pastor Dr. Jamal Bryant said about the program recipients. "They're appreciative to be able to press the refresh button."
Fox 5 reports that the church launched its efforts on Lent and pledged to raise $40,000 in order to bail people out of jail for Easter Sunday. Once the famed Atlanta rapper and the reality show star got involved, donations toward the church's program exceeded their goal way before the holiday. In total, the church reached at least $120,000.
Tip and the church's efforts don't stop after their release. The Bail Out program will also connect each recipient with a certified mentor for weekly check-ins. A portion of the donations will be used to establish college savings for any kids of the former inmates.
The Hustle Gang chief has been feeling charitable throughout 2019. Before spending big money at Nipsey Hussle's clothing store The Marathon, Tip was recognized at the Georgia State Capitol for his philanthropic efforts in his hometown. On March 22, State Sen. Donzella James saluted the artist for establishing several nonprofit organizations like Harris Community Works, which helps low-income families, and For the Love of Our Fathers, which assists with people living with Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
Watch the inspirational reactions from those who were released from jail on Easter Sunday below.
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