Reentry isn’t just “getting out of prison” – it’s rejoining society with a whole host of needs. Research consistently shows that the most effective reentry programs address all the basics of daily life, plus emotional health and community ties. In other words, to cut recidivism, support must be holistic and evidence-based.

Key components include:

• Safe housing. Stable housing is a top predictor of success after prison. Evidence shows that people released into transitional or permanent housing programs are much more likely to stay out of jail. Without an address, it’s nearly impossible to apply for jobs or benefits, and the stress of homelessness often leads back to criminalized survival strategies.
• Employment and education. Programs that teach job skills and help find work pay off. Studies of reentry programs like Minnesota’s have found that participants who receive vocational training or education are more likely to get and keep jobs, which in turn drastically cuts repeat offenses. Simply put, having an income and goals gives people a stake in life outside prison.
• Health care access. Over 80% of people leaving prison have a chronic health or mental illness. Ensuring immediate access to healthcare – medical, mental health, and substance use treatment – is critical. In fact, research shows that having Medicaid or health coverage upon reentry lowers recidivism because people are more likely to get treatment for addiction or mental illness that might otherwise lead back to crime.
• Family and community support. Reconnecting with family, mentors, and supportive networks is huge. A warm “handoff” to counselors or community groups means someone is there to catch them if they stumble. Evidence shows peer mentorship and family involvement in reentry programs improve outcomes. It aligns with findings in psychology that feeling loved and supported reduces stress and temptation.
• Ongoing case management. One-on-one help sorting out paperwork, parole requirements, child custody and more is proven crucial. Programs like Critical Time Intervention (CTI) use case managers to connect people with benefits and counseling, and have shown success in reducing homelessness and repeat arrests.

Insight: Good reentry help isn’t a single fix – it’s a package deal. Housing, jobs, health care, family and a caring coach or mentor all work together to keep someone on track. If you’re helping a loved one re-enter, remember the research: they need a hand on all fronts.