Reentry

When they return to our communities, formerly incarcerated elders may face complex challenges, including homelessness, unemployment, medical conditions, severed community and family ties, and profound disorientation. Those reentering after short stints in jail often have arrests driven by substance use disorder or mental illness. Resources that are available to other seniors may be or feel closed to them.

We advocate for more housing and services for older people leaving prison or jail. We conduct research to document the problem’s scope and work to end discriminatory laws and practices. With the humanizing voices of directly affected elders, we also work to expand the willingness and capacity of senior-serving agencies to welcome formerly incarcerated people.