What are the most significant problems faced by prisoners upon reentry?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answers will vary. Prisoner reentry is any activity or program dedicated to preparing parolees for life in the community and integrating parolees into the community as law-abiding citizens using a collaborative approach with parole officers, treatment providers, and the community. Reentry into the community is a vulnerable time that affects the prisoner, his or her family, his or her employer, the victim, and the surrounding community.Successful reentry includes prerelease planning, community referrals, and quick access to benefit programs and continuity of care so that there is no gap between the care received at the institution and in the new community situation. Recently released offenders are indigent but still need an identification card, clothes, bus pass, and other common items, and up to one-third need medications for a physical or psychological condition. They may not be eligible for certain benefits, and the prerelease institution may need to assist them in applying for various programs, which may take a few months for approval. Also, recently released offenders have other survival needs to meet, such as finding and maintaining stable employment, finding suitable housing, and staying clean of illegal drugs. They also have issues of transportation to find employment, go to work, and attend treatment sessions. Their health care or mental health may be overlooked in light of all the other responsibilities that need their attention.