Prison Fellowship

Reentry Ministry

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

  • Leaving the Past Behind, Leading the Way to Justice Reform

    Justice Ambassadors with a criminal record have stories to tell—and together with Prison Fellowship, they are making an impact in their communities.more »

  • How Values Interrupt Violence

    Growing up in Portsmouth, Virginia, Darrell knew violent crime as a normal part of life. Now, he’s part of a movement to interrupt violence in his hometown—and he’s getting creative with it.more »

  • Shattering Stigmas

    Joy Block-Wright never had trouble finding a job before she went to prison. Her strong work ethic, administrative skills, and outgoing personality proved essential wherever she worked. But once she had a criminal record, her …more »

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