Creating Pathways to a Successful Transition
Reentry means more than returning home after incarceration. It is a process of rebuilding – a journey that can involve finding stable housing, securing employment, continuing education, accessing healthcare and reconnecting with family. Successful reentry requires more than a single service or solution. It requires a network of resources that addresses the many challenges a person may encounter along the way.
What Are the Building Blocks of Reentry?
Every reentry journey is different, but several key areas can provide a foundation for stability and long-term success.
Stable Housing
Having a safe and stable place to live is one of the most important foundations for reentry. Without reliable housing, it can be difficult to maintain employment, access services, reconnect with family or meet other basic needs.
Education and Workforce Opportunities
Education and employment can provide individuals with opportunities to develop skills, achieve greater financial stability and build a sense of independence.
Supportive Networks
Reentry does not happen in isolation. Family members, friends, mentors, service providers and community organizations can all play an important role in helping individuals navigate the transition.
Access to Essential Services
Successful reentry may also depend on access to healthcare, behavioral health services, transportation, identification, legal assistance and other essential resources. Connecting individuals with the right services at the right time can help address immediate needs while creating a stronger foundation for long-term stability.
Reentry Is a Community Effort
The challenges associated with returning home after incarceration cannot be addressed by individuals alone. Communities, service providers, employers, policymakers and advocates all have a role to play in creating opportunities for successful reentry.
When individuals have access to stable housing, meaningful employment, education and supportive relationships, they are better positioned to reconnect with their communities and pursue healthy, fulfilling lives.
The Reentry Coalition of New Jersey, alongside its agency members and community partners, works to connect individuals and families with resources and support throughout the reentry process. By strengthening connections between people and the services available to them, the Reentry Coalition helps build a more coordinated approach to reentry across New Jersey.
