Reentry programs are becoming a focus for many agencies, communities and families. These programs serve a vital function in society That is what we will discuss in this blog post, just so we are all on the same page.
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Before we talk about why, let us first discuss what. Exactly what is a reentry program?
A reentry program assists ex-offenders with different services, upon release from prison or jail. The ex-offender may need housing, access to food or employment.
In times past, drug and alcohol treatment programs, were the main focuses upon an ex-offender’s release. Now, there services provided that address mental health issues, resources to obtain gainful employment that offer a living wage, programs to assist a parent with regaining custody of their child(ren), and much more.
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Some groups only calculate the funding required, to offer these types of programs and services. The costs associated with reentry programs, is a drop in the bucket when you compare it to the money spent on each inmate.
The U.S. government finally realized that, how we supported inmates and ex-offenders in the past, was not sustainable, financially, moving forward.
Let us briefly discuss why money became an issue.
Fact: It costs over $16,000 per year, to house, clothe and feed each inmate in the state of Georgia, according to Georgia Dept. of Corrections.
Fact: There are over 50,000 men and women in the custody of the Georgia Dept of Correction each year.
Fact: Over 40% (over 20,000) will be re-arrested – often for minor violations – within three years of their release. However, the new charge or violation, does not change the fact that they will cost tax payers over $16,000.
Without breaking out the Calculus calculator, you can quickly see why money colored the lens of the criminal justice system, right?
In the 1980’s, mass incarceration seemed to be the answer lawmakers favored. It seemed to solve the issue of the criminal element – drug dealing, robbery, homicides, etc.
It is no surprise that Corrections Coporations of America opened in 1983.
Fast-forward 40+ years, and the next generation of lawmakers now have to embrace a new, more effective means, to a more favorable end. One that will cost taxpayers less overall. Plus, we can bring families back together and strengthen our communities.
Oftentimes, economic disparity is the root cause of one’s substance abuse. The downfall – jail or prison, homelessness, loss of family, etc. tend to occur after the dependency has taken control of one’s thoughts and actions.
Making rehab a part of an ex-offender’s reentry program, increases the likelihood that they will not be re-arrested.
As reentry programs become more widespread, and readily available, more ex-offenders will successfully rejoin society. We, as a society, will reap the benefits.
These same ex-offenders will become tax-paying citizens, better parents and community leaders. They will be instrumental in guiding younger offenders and at-risk youth along the law-abiding path.
LifeChangers sees brighter future in sight for ex-offenders. Reentry programs are changing how they rejoin society. The vast improvement may take a some time, we believe as Sam Cooke did, “A change is coming. Oh yes, it is!”
What would you add to this blog post? Do you have experience with reentry programs? Please leave your comment below.
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