FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nonprofits Release Reentry Services Guidebook for Washington, DC
Washington, DC – July 23, 2024 – The Justice Policy Institute and Changing Perceptions announce the release of a comprehensive reentry services guidebook and directory explicitly tailored for Washington, DC. This important resource is designed to assist returning citizens by providing essential information to support their reintegration into the community.
Studies consistently highlight the heightened risk of reoffending during the initial weeks after reentry, underscoring the critical role of this resource in connecting individuals with essential services to meet their immediate needs. It is imperative that District leadership remains committed to prioritizing investments in reentry support programs like those found in the guidebook to ensure broader access to services and to capitalize on opportunities to bolster proactive public safety initiatives.
The guidebook is carefully curated and organized into seven categories, covering a wide range of services, including:
- Education and Employment Services: Resources and programs to enhance skills and secure meaningful employment.
- Food Pantries and Meal Services: Resources to combat food insecurity.
- Mental and Health Services: Access to crucial mental health support and medical care, including substance use and alcohol disorder support.
“This resource guide is a pivotal tool in navigating the often-complex reentry system, ensuring that returning citizens can connect with the services essential for addressing their specific needs,” said Monte Pollard, Executive Director of Changing Perceptions. “We have worked directly with the returning citizens and establishing effective connection to reentry services is part of the reason why there is such a low recidivism rate.”
The directory will remain a dynamic and evolving document, regularly updated to reflect the latest information on direct service organizations. To achieve this, we developed an easy form that any direct service provider can submit for review to be included in the updated version of the resource. This will ensure that returning citizens have access to the most current resources available.
One directly impacted individual shared their perspective on the significance of this guide: “If I had access to this guide during the first few days and weeks of my release, it would have made a world of difference. It’s an invaluable tool to help many others like me find their footing more quickly and confidently.”
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About Changing Perceptions
Changing Perceptions empowers returning citizens by providing hands-on and authentic mentoring, guidance, training, networking, and other supports and referrals to needed services