Beyond bucks: Discover the types of support for Reentry and ways to make a difference

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-prisoners in finding and keeping employment, identifying transitional housing, and receiving mentoring are three key elements of successful re-entry into our communities.

These are the most common needs of a newly-released person returning to your community.

Immediate Needs

• Safe housing

• Adequate food

• Clothing and personal care items

• Transportation

• A church home

• Emotional and spiritual support

• Proper identification

• Access to a phone

• Medical and dental care; psychiatric care

• Alcohol or substance-abuse treatment and rehabilitation

Ongoing Needs • Life-skills training and preparation • Employment • Income to cover ongoing expenses • Further educational and/or vocational training • Professional services (attorney, accountant, counselor, etc.) • Mentoring and spiritual guidance/support • Counseling for family and marital problems • Strong friendships

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