Reentry Services & Resources

The most comprehensive reentry directory in the country. Search by state to find housing, employment, legal aid, substance abuse treatment, and mentoring programs specifically for returning citizens. Run by the U.S. Department of Justice. If you just got out and don't know where to start — start here. Covers every state and territory.

📞 nationalreentryresourcecenter.org

Dial 2-1-1 from any phone for instant connection to food, shelter, clothing, and reentry services near you. Operators are trained to help people with criminal records and know which shelters accept felons, which food banks require no ID, and which programs are taking new clients. Available 24/7 in most areas. Free from any phone including pay phones. This is the fastest way to get help today.

📞 Dial 2-1-1

The largest job board specifically for people with criminal records. Thousands of employers who have committed to fair-chance hiring — they WANT to hire you. Create a free profile, be honest about your background, and apply directly. Many employers offer on-the-job training. Categories include warehouse, construction, food service, driving, tech, healthcare, and more. New jobs posted daily.

📞 honestjobs.com

Official HUD resource for finding housing with a criminal record. Lists transitional housing, sober living homes, and landlords who accept people with felonies. Know your rights: most private landlords CAN run background checks, but many cities and states have 'ban the box' housing laws that limit what they can deny you for. Public housing authorities have their own rules — some are more lenient than you think. Don't assume you can't get housing — apply and find out.

📞 800-955-2232

Many convictions can be expunged (erased) or sealed from your record — meaning they won't show up on background checks for jobs, housing, or loans. Eligibility varies by state, charge type, and time since conviction. Many states now have Clean Slate laws that automatically clear certain records. Free legal aid attorneys can tell you exactly what's eligible and file the paperwork for you at no cost. This single step can change your entire life.

📞 lawhelp.org

Most returning citizens are eligible for SNAP food benefits — including many people with drug felonies (the lifetime ban was lifted in most states). Average benefit is $200+/month for a single person. You can apply the DAY you are released. Some states have expedited processing that gets you benefits within 7 days. Apply online, by phone, or walk into your county social services office. No address required — you can use a shelter address.

📞 800-221-5689

Many states now enroll you in Medicaid BEFORE you are released, so coverage starts on day one. If not, apply immediately — most returning citizens qualify because of low or no income. Covers doctor visits, prescriptions, mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, dental, and hospital stays. No cost to you. Apply at your state Medicaid office, healthcare.gov, or call the number below.

📞 877-267-2323

If you received SSI or SSDI before incarceration, your benefits can be reinstated quickly after release — sometimes within 30 days. File your reinstatement application BEFORE your release date if possible. If you've never applied but have a disability, you can file a new claim immediately. Social Security also helps you get a replacement Social Security card for free — essential for employment.

📞 800-772-1213

Free job search assistance, resume writing, interview coaching, skills training, and job placement — federally funded and required to serve returning citizens without discrimination. Over 2,400 locations nationwide. Many offer computer access, work clothing, transportation vouchers, and referrals to other services. Tell the staff you are a returning citizen — they may have specialized programs with additional support.

📞 877-872-5627

This program provides FREE fidelity bonds to employers who hire returning citizens — essentially free insurance that covers the employer if you steal or cause damage. This removes the #1 reason employers say no. The bond is free for the first 6 months, and most employers never need to use it. Mention this in job interviews — it shows you're serious and removes their financial risk. Available through your state workforce agency.

📞 800-233-2258

24/7 free referral line for addiction treatment, mental health counseling, and dual-diagnosis programs. Many programs specifically serve returning citizens and understand the challenges of staying sober after incarceration. Treatment options include inpatient rehab, outpatient counseling, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and peer support. No insurance required — sliding scale or free options available.

📞 800-662-4357

The largest faith-based reentry organization in America. Provides mentoring, community connection, holiday gift programs for your children, and ongoing support from people who believe in second chances. Their reentry program matches you with a trained mentor who walks alongside you through the first year — helping with jobs, housing, family reconnection, and staying on track. Available in communities nationwide. All faiths welcome.

📞 800-206-9764