Support Networks for Federal Offenders and Ex-Convicts

Support Networks for Federal Offenders and Ex-Convicts

Over 10,000 ex-prisoners are released from America’s state and federal prisons every week and arrive on the doorsteps of our nation’s communities. More than 650,000 ex-offenders are released from prison every year, and studies show that approximately two-thirds will likely be rearrested within three years of release. The high volume of returnees is a reflection on the tremendous growth in the U.S. prison population during the past 30 years. For the communities to which most former prisoners return (communities which are often impoverished and disenfranchised neighborhoods with few social supports and persistently high crime rates), the release of ex-offenders represents a variety of challenges. What can be done to help people who are released from prison keep from being rearrested? With no job, no money, and no place to live, returnees often find themselves facing the same pressures and temptations that landed them in prison in the first place. Assisting ex-offenders with reentry into society benefits us all.

Employment Assistance

A key component to reentry for a person who was formerly incarcerated is employment. The following online and print resources provide information and services aimed at assisting justice-involved individuals with locating employment. Check your local employment laws for guidance on how to report a criminal history on employment applications. The following online resources reflect a mix of public and private programs and services addressing employment assistance for ex-offenders.

• Employment opportunities for the justice-involved have been traditionally available in the following industries: trucking, construction, landscaping, fast food restaurants, drilling and oil, temporary agencies, newspaper delivery, apprenticeship programs, as well as work at home/online careers.
• The General Collections of the Library of Congress contain some materials on resources justice-involved individuals can use to find employment and training opportunities.
• CareerOneStop resources for ex-offenders.
• Employment and Training Administration resources for the reintegration of ex-offenders.
• Employment Assistance for Ex-Offenders: A Guide for Employers (PDF) from the National Institute of Corrections.

Housing Assistance

Finding housing is often a challenge for ex-offenders, who may have limited financial resources or face discrimination from landlords. Here are some options to explore:

• Contact local transitional housing programs that help ex-offenders get back on their feet.
• Check if any reentry programs in your area offer temporary housing assistance.
• Consider applying for public housing, but be aware of restrictions for those with criminal records.
• Look for private landlords open to renting to ex-offenders, especially in lower-income areas.
• Seek out roommate situations or shared housing to save on costs.
• Research hotel/motel voucher programs that provide temporary shelter.

Having a stable living situation is critical for ex-offenders to successfully transition to life after incarceration. Don’t get discouraged if you face initial rejections – keep networking and asking around until you find housing options open to you.

Education and Training

Gaining new skills through education or vocational training can open up more employment opportunities for those with criminal records. Options to consider include:

• Earning a GED if you don’t have a high school diploma.
• Enrolling in courses at a local community college, which are open to ex-offenders.
• Exploring vocational programs that teach trades like plumbing, electrical work, or construction.
• Looking into free or low-cost adult education classes.
• Finding apprenticeship opportunities to get hands-on training.
• Asking local nonprofits if they offer any job training programs.

Every little bit of education or training you can get will make you more employable. Check your local library or community center for affordable learning opportunities.

Substance Abuse Treatment

Many ex-offenders struggle with addiction issues that contributed to their criminal activities. Seeking treatment is essential for breaking the cycle and getting back on track. Options include:

• Contacting your local health department about low-cost or free addiction treatment programs.
• Calling the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) helpline at 1-800-662-HELP.
• Looking into sober living homes that provide structured, drug-free housing.
• Joining a 12-step program like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
• Exploring faith-based organizations that offer addiction counseling services.
• Asking probation/parole officers about treatment resources available to you.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help – substance abuse treatment can greatly improve your chances of successfully reintegrating after incarceration. Take it one day at a time as you work toward recovery.

Mental Health Treatment

Incarceration can take a toll on mental health. Many ex-offenders struggle with conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD and more. Connecting with treatment services can make all the difference. Options to pursue include:

• Contacting local mental health clinics or counseling centers.
• Looking into government programs like Medicaid that cover mental health services.
• Seeking low-cost treatment from psychiatric residents at teaching hospitals.
• Finding therapists who offer sliding-scale fees based on your income.
• Exploring group therapy options which can be more affordable.
• Reaching out to reentry organizations that provide counseling.

Don’t let stigma or lack of funds prevent you from getting help – there are more mental health resources available than you might think. Your wellbeing matters, so make self-care a priority.

Family Support

The support of family is invaluable for ex-offenders transitioning back to society. Here’s how families can help:

• Welcome the ex-offender home with open arms and leave the past in the past.
• Provide emotional support through regular communication and encouragement.
• Assist with housing, transportation, childcare, and meeting other basic needs.
• Help apply for jobs, educational opportunities, and government benefits.
• Motivate them to stay on track with recovery goals.
• Offer guidance based on your own life experiences.
• Help network with supportive friends or community members.

Even if family relationships are strained, do your best to repair and strengthen those bonds. Families are the frontlines for ex-offender support.

Peer Support Groups

Connecting with others who have walked in your shoes can provide invaluable support. Search for ex-offender peer support groups in your area, or start your own. You can:

• Trade stories and struggles from life during and after incarceration.
• Share job leads, housing ideas, and other practical tips.
• Offer encouragement to stay committed to reentry goals.
• Suggest useful community resources to check out.
• Provide mentorship to those at earlier stages of reentry.
• Organize social events to build community and relationships.

Peer support provides motivation and accountability. Band together with like-minded return citizens – you’ll go farther together.

Community and Faith-Based Programs

Many local organizations are dedicated to assisting ex-offenders get back on their feet. Explore what’s available in your community:

• Reentry programs run by nonprofit social service agencies.
• Support groups hosted at community centers or libraries.
• Programs organized by religious institutions offering mentoring, housing, job assistance and more.
• Volunteer opportunities to give back and build skills.
• Transitional housing located in residential neighborhoods.
• Groups that provide pro-social activities like sports leagues or art classes.

Tapping into community resources can provide social connections along with practical support. Get involved and access the help available to you locally.

Government Assistance Programs

Government agencies offer resources that can help with reentry:

• The Department of Labor funds the Reentry Employment Opportunities program offering job training and placement services.
• The Department of Justice oversees the Returning Home Initiative providing mentoring and transitional services.
• The Department of Education offers the Correctional Education program supporting education opportunities for those incarcerated and formerly incarcerated.
• Social Security may offer some assistance through the Supplemental Security Income Reentry program.

Don’t hesitate to find out what federal reentry initiatives exist – you may qualify for skills training, housing aid, healthcare or income support. These programs are here to help people get back on their feet after incarceration.

Legal Services

Navigating the legal system can be challenging post-release. Legal assistance may help with:

• Understanding the terms of your probation or parole.
• Resolving outstanding warrants or fines.
• Expunging or sealing criminal records when eligible.
• Addressing civil legal issues around housing, employment, benefits access.
• Getting advice on restoring voting rights.
• Helping with family law, custody matters and more.

Options for legal help include pro bono clinics, law school programs, and nonprofit legal advocacy groups. Don’t let legal hurdles trip you up – get informed about your rights.

In Conclusion

The road to reentry has many challenges, but thankfully ex-offenders don’t have to walk it alone. Support networks exist in communities nationwide – tap into them. Whether it’s employment assistance, peer support groups, addiction counseling, or any of the other resources covered here, there are options to help you succeed. The key is being proactive about identifying and accessing available programs. Don’t be discouraged if doors seem closed at first – keep knocking and you’ll find open hands ready to help lift you up. You have so much potential to turn your life around.