Reentry is tough. Two-thirds of released prisoners will be arrested again within three years. Help former prisoners transition back into society. The resources on this page will show you why reentry ministry is challenging—but also exciting and deeply rewarding. (Please click on the + to view more resources.)
Ministry Basics
Get Out and Stay Out: A Reentry Guide
More than 600,000 prisoners return to their communities every year. Two out of three former prisoners will be rearrested again within three years. How you can make the most of your second chance by getting out and staying out.
Three Resources Every Returning Citizen Needs
Every year, hundreds of thousands of prisoners are released and return to society, and they need a second chance. The Church can lead the way.
Biblical Basis for Reentry Ministry
These insightful scriptures will help increase your mission and vision for reentry ministry.
Needs of Ex-Prisoners
Discover the types of support a former prisoner might need when returning home.
Probation and Parole Requirements
Learn about some of the typical rules for a person being released from prison.
Phases of Reentry
Take a look at three vital phases of the ex-prisoner’s long journey home.
Ministry Tools
Resources For Essential Reentry Services
Find national, state, and local resources to help former prisoners and their families.
Six Vital Areas of Life Support
When planning a reentry ministry, consider these vital needs.
The Shortimer Handbook
This reference guide is a practical tool for helping “shortimers,” or prisoners about to be released, prepare for the next stage in their journey.
Helping Former Prisoners Make Decisions
Consider eight practical ways to help newly released prisoners make better decisions.
From Prisoner to Payroll
Use this practical tool to help returning citizens become responsible employees.
Short-Term Ministry
Opening a Clothes Closet
Minister to former prisoners by providing appropriate clothing for work and daily life.
Providing Basic Household Furnishings
Join others to help former prisoners who are starting over with nothing.
Starting a Food Pantry
Food is a necessity for those returning to your community.
Long-Term Ministry
Creating a Bridge to Freedom
Discover how Bridge Churches help returning prisoners navigate the road to freedom.
Praying for Former Prisoners
Learn how your prayers can encourage former prisoners as they struggle with the many challenges of reentry.
Helping Former Prisoners Get Medical Care
Help former prisoners obtain the health care they need after release.
Helping Former Prisoners Find Jobs
Get ready to help returning citizens find work.
Helping Former Prisoners Find Housing
Learn how to find appropriate housing for newly released prisoners who lack shelter.
Encouraging a Life of Sobriety
You can play a critical role in helping men and women break free from addictions that can derail their newfound freedom.
Recommended Reading
Seven Ways to Help Your Loved One Adjust to Life After Prison
How can you help your loved one adjust to life after prison? Here are seven tips to consider.
Eight Ways to Prepare for a Loved One’s Reentry
Preparing you and your family for the return of your incarcerated loved one can be beneficial to your loved one’s reentry—and your family’s adjustment process. Here are some steps toward a successful transition.
Second Chance Month
Let’s walk together to unlock brighter futures for 65 million Americans seeking a second chance to rebuild their lives after paying their debt to society.
When Prisoners Return
Pat Nolan, a criminal justice reform advocate who spent time in prison, discusses what can be done to help prisoners returning to society to live healthy and productive lives.
Women Rising
Former female prisoners describe how they have broken free from their criminal pasts and offer suggestions to help other women avoid going down a path leading to prison.
More God, Less Crime
Criminologist Byron R. Johnson describes how congregations and faith-based organizations are essential in forming partnerships necessary to effectively address crime, transform prisoners’ lives, and solve reentry problems facing former prisoners.
RECENT BLOG POSTS ABOUT REENTRY MINISTRY
Second Chance Month 2020 Highlights
Prison Fellowship celebrates Second Chance Month every April to help unlock second chances for tens of millions of Americans with a criminal record. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted our plans, as it did for most Americans. …more »Prison Fellowship Celebrates Texas Occupational Licensing Law Reforms
The 4 in 10 Texans with a criminal record face significant barriers to employment because of restrictions on occupational licensing in the state. But Prison Fellowship’s advocacy efforts helped to change that—and to open up …more »5 Tips for Colleges Welcoming Returning Citizens
Returning citizens face numerous barriers to education. Karen Swanson, director of the Billy Graham Center’s Institute for Prison Ministries at Wheaton College, has five tips for colleges and universities that want to welcome former prisoners.more »