December 15, 2009

Twenty people will graduate from the Houston Department of Health and Human Services’ (HDHHS) Community Re-entry Network during a ceremony set for 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, at the Northeast Multi-Service Center, 9720 Spaulding.

The Community Re-entry Network helps people who have been in prison successfully re-enter society, reach their full potential and live as productive citizens. The program aims to reduce the number of people rearrested or re-incarcerated.  

Mentors and caseworkers are available for clients who take part in the program. The first part of the program is a two-week intensive assessment and training phase to help clients find stable housing and employment. The second part is a 10-week support program based on the individual service needs of each client.

Major areas of support and assistance offered by the program to clients also include training, referrals, peer support, transportation, improving family relationships, medical assistance, substance abuse education and mental health services.

Twenty-six percent of inmates released from Texas Department of Criminal Justice return to Houston and Harris County.  By the end of 2002, Texas held the second highest state prison population in the nation and the third highest incarceration rate.

For more information about the program, call 832-393-5464.