Successful reentry into society for ex-offenders begins prior to them leaving a correctional institution. Attending programs to help overcome drug and alcohol addiction, as well as anger management, are important while incarcerated to prepare for release. Successful reentry is incumbent upon many things and can include many obstacles. One of the many hurdles
faced by ex-offenders upon returning to society is finding stable and affordable housing. Housing
is the number one challenge for those who are recently released from prison. “Discharge planning, an expansion of transition services, and the provision of targeted housing for ex-
offenders can play a critical role in improving housing stability, especially for those ex-offenders
who have a mental health diagnosis or a history of addiction, or who have been convicted of a sexual offense.” (McKernan, P., 2022). Another challenge faced by ex-offenders is finding and maintaining stable employment. “Given the importance of long-term employment on recidivism rates, community reentry programs must emphasize placement into high-quality jobs with upward potential. Ways to do so
include through educational, particularly vocational and GED-based, and entrepreneurship programs.” (Tucker-Price, A., et. al., 2019) Obtaining and securing stable employment impacts an ex-offender's ability to take care of themselves and their families. Without steady employment, they are unable to provide stable housing and the necessities needed to care for themselves and those that they care for. This is a leading cause of recidivism.
