Central ND News

Reentering life after prison poses numerous challenges, including finding stable housing, employment, and accessing healthcare. In North Dakota, collaborative efforts between state agencies and community organizations are aimed at easing this transition. The state's approach involves coordination between the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DOCR), North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS), Job Service North Dakota (JSND), the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT), and other community entities.

"Reentry isn't just about leaving incarceration—it's about having the right support in place to build a stable future," explained Reentry and Recovery Commissioner Jonathan Holth. He emphasized that cooperation is key in helping individuals reenter society successfully.

The joint initiatives focus on breaking down barriers formerly incarcerated individuals face, such as the stigma of having a criminal record and the need for affordable housing. By addressing these issues collaboratively, the goal is to reduce recidivism and promote long-term success.

"Every person has a different pathway into the choices they make, and every person is going to have somewhat of a different pathway out of it," said DOCR Reentry Manager Robyn Schmalenberger, highlighting the importance of personalized support systems.

DOCR Community Resource Manager Travis Collins stressed the significance of early intervention for reentry success. "By bringing services into the facilities, we’re not just preparing people for release—we’re helping them build relationships and access the resources they need to succeed from day one," he noted.

NDDOT plays a key role in ensuring that those leaving incarceration have proper identification, which is essential for accessing employment and housing. Meanwhile, HHS facilitates that incarcerated individuals can apply for Medicaid prior to their release, ensuring they have access to necessary healthcare services.

JSND supports justice-involved individuals through career readiness initiatives, job fairs, and programs like the Job Placement Pilot Program (JP3), which aids participants in securing and maintaining employment. "The positive impact of this program is evident, not just for individuals but for North Dakota’s workforce as a whole,” said Amy Arenz, JSND Bismarck workforce center manager.

Additionally, North Dakota Child Support has enacted law changes to help parents reintegrate into society by automatically terminating support obligations if incarceration lasts 180 days or more, supporting financial stability post-release.

Recovery housing options and programs like Free Through Recovery (FTR), which fosters recovery support services, play a crucial role in this comprehensive approach. Heather Brandt, HHS manager of behavioral health community supports, highlighted the importance of these services stating, "Having stable housing and recovery support in place can be the difference between success and returning to the system.”

Faith-based groups and nonprofits contribute significantly by offering mentorship and reentry meals, among other resources. DOCR Director Colby Braun underscored the broader impact of reentry programs: "When people return to our communities with the right resources in place, it benefits everyone as it leads to stronger families, safer communities, and better outcomes for all."

For further information on the reentry initiatives in North Dakota, the state's resources can be accessed online at docr.nd.gov.