WILMINGTON--An old jail has a new purpose, helping people getting out of prison.

The ribbon was cut Friday on a new halfway house at the old New Hanover County Jail.

Officials say the Marvin E. Roberts Transitional Living Facility will help those recently released from the correctional system.

The 40-bed center will provide educational, health and rehabilitation services to help participants re-enter society.

Participants in the program will include 20 men and 20 women, who are at least 18-years-old.