Second Chance Services » Finding Housing and Employment After Release in California: Resources and Support

Re-entering society after incarceration can be a challenging process. Two of the biggest obstacles facing ex-offenders are finding housing and employment. Many landlords and employers are reluctant to rent or hire individuals with criminal records, making it difficult to secure a stable foundation for a successful transition.

However, there are resources available to help ex-offenders overcome these challenges and build a new life.

Housing Resources:

Second Chance Housing: This program provides affordable housing and supportive services to individuals with criminal records.
The John Howard Association: This organization helps people with criminal records find housing and employment.
The Anti-Recidivism Coalition: This organization provides housing assistance and other services to ex-offenders.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation: The CDCR offers a variety of housing resources for ex-offenders, including transitional housing and re-entry centers.

Employment Resources:

Second Chance Services: This agency provides job placement services to individuals with criminal records.
The Center for Employment Opportunities: This organization helps ex-offenders find jobs and develop career skills.
The National HIRE Network: This network connects employers with ex-offenders looking for work.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation: The CDCR offers a variety of employment resources for ex-offenders, including job training programs and job fairs.

Additional Resources:

The National Association of Second Chance Organizations: This organization is a national network of organizations that provide support to ex-offenders.
The National Reentry Resource Center: This website provides information and resources on re-entry issues, including housing and employment.

Tips for Finding Housing and Employment:

Be prepared: Have an updated resume and references ready.
Highlight your skills and experience: Focus on your positive attributes and transferable skills.
Be honest about your criminal history: It's best to be upfront about your criminal record early on.
Network: Talk to friends, family, and former employers for job leads.
Use online resources: There are many websites and apps that can help you find housing and employment opportunities.

Success Stories:

Many ex-offenders have successfully found housing and employment with the help of these resources. Here are a few examples:

John Smith: After being released from prison, John struggled to find a job and housing. He eventually connected with Second Chance Services, which helped him find a job as a construction worker.
Mary Johnson: Mary was homeless after being released from prison. She was able to find affordable housing through the John Howard Association and a job as a retail clerk.
Michael Brown: Michael was on parole when he found out about the Center for Employment Opportunities. They helped him get his GED and find a job as a warehouse worker.

Conclusion:

Finding housing and employment can be challenging for ex-offenders, but it is possible. There are many resources available to help individuals with criminal records succeed. By being proactive and seeking out support, ex-offenders can build a new life and achieve their goals.