How to Support People When Leaving Prison

By Tyra Marieza, eHow Contributor

Source: ehow.com

The Justice Policy Institute, an organization dedicated to the promotion of just and effective solutions to social problems, stated in 2010 that the United States had "the highest rate of incarceration in the world, holding 5 percent of the world's overall population and 25 percent of its prison population." Of this number, 729,295 prisoners were released from prison in 2009, needing jobs, housing and, in many cases, mental and medical treatment. Knowing how to support someone who is released from incarceration is essential to their successful re-entry into society.

Instructions

1. accommodations. When you agree to allow a released prisoner to stay in your home, be prepared for him to stay with you until he can live independently, which could take anywhere from six months to a year or more. Having a reliable place of residency is a part of the prison release protocol.
2. Have living necessities available for the released prisoner. When someone is released from prison she will immediately need clothes, shoes and access to daily meals. Having these living necessities readily available will help in making her transition from the prison into the community a more welcoming experience.
3. Schedule time to help the former inmate pursue job opportunities. Plan and communicate with the former prisoner on days when you are available to help him get necessary documentation and education for job placement. After being released from prison, former inmates need to get valid state identification cards and training at local career centers for job opportunities. Letting her know that she will have your support and a means of transportation can eliminate the temptation to fall back into illegal activities in an effort to "make it."