Central ND News

Reentering society after incarceration poses numerous challenges, including securing stable housing, employment, health care, and recovery resources. North Dakota addresses these issues through a coordinated agenda involving multiple state agencies and community organizations. The collaboration consists of 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), community partners, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations.

"Reentry isn't just about leaving incarceration—it's about having the right support in place to build a stable future," stated Reentry and Recovery Commissioner Jonathan Holth. The goal of these partnerships is to create stronger pathways for successful reintegration and to reduce crime in North Dakota.

DOCR focuses on overcoming reentry barriers such as affordable housing and the stigma associated with a criminal record by maintaining engagement with support services post-release. DOCR Reentry Manager Robyn Schmalenberger emphasized, "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.”

DOCR Community Resource Manager Travis Collins highlighted early intervention's role, saying, "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.”

HHS supports these efforts by establishing early contacts within correctional facilities to increase post-release program follow-through, while NDDOT ensures individuals have proper identification, which is critical for accessing essential services.

Ensuring healthcare access upon release is another vital aspect. DOCR and HHS allow incarcerated individuals to apply for Medicaid before their release. This method helps them continue treatment for chronic conditions and access necessary health services, which in turn reduces health-related recidivism.

Job Service North Dakota (JSND) offers career readiness classes, job fairs, and the Job Placement Pilot Program to improve employment rates among justice-involved individuals. Program participants earn significantly more compared to those who do not complete the program. "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.

HHS and JSND also address the challenges of child support obligations for incarcerated parents, offering a six-month adjustment period post-release before obligations resume. Additionally, the Recovery Housing Assistance Program (RHAP) and Free Through Recovery (FTR) programs enable access to recovery support services and stable housing environments.

Heather Brandt from HHS pointed out, "Having stable housing and recovery support in place can be the difference between success and returning to the system.”

Schmalenberger concluded, “Collaboratively, all of these programs are foundational to supporting basic needs, critical dimensions of wellness and overall success." DOCR Director Colby Braun added, "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."