NCJ Number
230589
Date Published
May 2010
Length
42 pages
Annotation
This guide from the Council of State Governments Justice Center is intended as a resource for policymakers for providing reentry housing options to recently released offenders.
Abstract
Studies have shown that access to safe and secure housing within the first month of release is critical to the successful reentry of individuals recently released from prison. However, in most jurisdictions, access to affordable housing, especially for those with a criminal record, is in short supply. This guide is intended as a resource for individuals, policymakers, and organizations working to enhance public safety by reducing recidivism through the development of sound policies and programs that facilitate successful reentry into the community. The guide begins with a brief description and chart of six different alternatives for reentry housing that are the focus of this document. For each housing option, the chart includes the features of the option along with its related benefits and limitations. The next section of the guide examines three different approaches to enhancing the availability of the six housing options presented in the chart. These approaches are creating greater access to existing housing units, increasing the number of housing units available specifically for the reentry population, and engaging in a comprehensive neighborhood revitalization effort that includes a plan to expand housing options for at-risk individuals. Appendix and references