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    SUPPORT FOR FORMERLY INCARCERATED INDIVIDUALS

    There are resources available to help and support formerly incarcerated individuals and their families during the transition from custody to community, but navigating the systems of services can be overwhelming.  2-1-1 Orange County has partnered together with the Orange County Re-Entry Partnership, the Returning Home Foundation, and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department to improve access to re-entry resources in Orange County.

    As you explore the tools and resources here, feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

    First 24 Hours

    If you are about to be or were released from custody in Orange County, CA within the last 24 hours, this planning guide is for you. Print and use it to help you GET on track.

    Next 72 Hours

    Studies have proven that the first 72 hours after release from jail or prison are crucial for a successful re-entry into the community. Print this checklist to STAY on track.

    Top 10 Things

    Print this list of the top 10 things you can do to make your transition from custody to community as smooth as possible.

    Useful Links

    Links to information and applications for important government documents:

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    How To Use This Site

    For people who are about to be released or have been recently released from custody.

    Returning to the community from incarceration can be overwhelming. There are many challenges people who have been in jail or prison may face during this transitional time, including finding safe and stable housing, securing employment, addressing health problems, and making sure they have the community support they need. This is a guide to the resources throughout Orange County that can help you address the challenges of re-entry. It includes general information about things like planning for your release and maintaining your health, as well as lists of specific programs such as residential treatment programs and community health clinics.

    Where to start:

    Studies have proven that the first 72 hours after release from jail or prison are crucial in laying the foundation for a successful re-entry into the community. With this in mind, we have included a 72 Hour Checklist specifically created for those being released from custody in Orange County, CA.  It can be printed and used as a starting point to help prepare for the transition from custody to community.  
    We have also included a Re-Entry Transition Plan to be filled out according to the specific needs of the individual being released. This tool can be used to help organize ideas about the kinds of resources that will best meet the needs of the person re-entering, and to help decide which services will be most important/urgent to access upon release.

    What people re-entering may want to keep in mind:

    • When trying to find the resources that are right for you, it is important to be patient and be polite.
    • Many times the result of one letter, phone call or visit with the people who are trying to help you may just be a new number to try, but keep in mind that each resource you contact is a positive step towards your success. Patience and politeness will open doors for you as you plan your transition.   
    • Be patient and polite with yourself too! Contact resources, and follow up with community organizations to make sure your transition is as organized and seamless as possible, so that you can avoid added stress. (And check out our page of Helpful Checklists to use as you work to stay healthy, maintain your mental/emotional health, and gather important documents).

    Where to get more information:

    Public libraries are an important resource available in almost every community. Modern libraries generally offer anyone in the public use of a few computers and free internet access. Internet access makes it much easier to get information about local services, and librarians are trained to help people find information.

    If you have a specific interest, a librarian may also be able to help you find books and other information that will help. Printing and copying are often available for a small fee. Libraries also offer educational events and post flyers about what’s going on in the community. Click here for an online list of Orange County public libraries.

    Remember also that you can always contact 2-1-1 to speak to a trained specialist who can help you find up-to-date information on the services available to you!

    Adapted from:http://211sandiego.org/Re-entry_HowToUse_Guide

    Additional Information

    Top 10 Things You Can Do For a Successful Re-entry

    TOP 10 THINGS YOU CAN DO FOR A 
    SUCCESSFUL RE-ENTRY INTO THE COMMUNITY

    While each individual's journey will be unique, this is a list of commono things to consider to help make the transition from custody to community as smooth as possible. The checklist has been created specifically for those being released from custody in Orange County, CA and can be used as a starting point to hlep prepare for the transition from custody to community.

    DOWNLOAD THIS CHECKLIST TO PRINT FOR SOMEONE YOU KNOW (Successful Re-Entry Into The Community)

    Find safe and stable housing.

    Find a stable source of food.

    Learn about transportation options and obtain stable transportation.

    Gather important documents such as birth certificate, social security card, ID card or driver’s license (see the “Documents Checklist” for a quick guide).

    Learn if you qualify for medical coverage and CalFresh (food stamps).

    Go to a One-Stop, job assistance center or employment program for resume assistance and job resources.

    Resolve any child support or legal issues.

    Take care of your medical needs such as prescription refills, dental, vision, physical examination, HIV/STD/Hepatitis testing and treatment.

    Build a positive support system of friends, family, and other helpful people.

    Attend community support meetings, such as AA, NA, Ex-Offender Re-Entry programs and/or faith community meetings.

     Adapted from:
    http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/hhsa/programs/phs/sdreentrytoolkit/PHReentryBrochure.pdf
    http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/hhsa/programs/phs/sdreentrytoolkit/

    Documents Checklist

    DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST

    DOWNLOAD THIS CHECKLIST TO PRINT FOR SOMEONE YOU KNOW (Re-Entry: Documents Chekclist)

     While each agency or program may have different requirements, whatever services one may be applying for, it may be a good idea to have these commonly-required items for each person in the household who needs assistance. Check the "Important Documents" page for links to learn more about and apply for documents like ID cards, Birth Certificates, etc.

    IMPORTANT ITEMS TO GATHER

    Birth certificates or other proof of age and family relationship

    Copy of Driver’s License or other picture ID

    Social Security numbers or proof of application

    Proof of residency, such as rent/mortgage receipt, utility bill

    Proof of all income, such as current pay stubs, child support and alimony

    Social Security award letters, unemployment/disability benefits, VA benefits

    All current checking and savings account statements

    Immigration status, such as Permanent Resident Card, citizenship verification or passport

    Current vehicle registrations, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, trailers, motor homes, or boats (include verification of balance owed on each vehicle)

    Verification of disability (if applicable)

    Pregnancy verification (if pregnant)

     Adapted from:
    http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/hhsa/programs/phs/sdreentrytoolkit/PHReentryToolkit.pdf

    Tips For Transitioning Well and Maintaining Health

    Tips for Transitioning Well and Maintaining Your Mental/Emotional Health

    Re-entry can be both exciting and frustrating.
    This list of tips for mental/emotional wellness may help with the transition process.

    Download this re-entry checklist to print for someone you know (Re-Entry: Tips for Transitioning Well)
    1. Mentally prepare for the adjustment process. Be prepared for anything!
    2. Give yourself permission to ease into the transition. Allow yourself time to get used to the new environment.
    3. Give yourself time. You’ll need time to relax and reflect upon what is going on around you, how you are reacting to it, and what you might like to change.
    4. Understand that the familiar will seem different. You have changed; home has changed. You will see familiar people, places, and behaviors from new perspectives.
    5. Expect to do some ‘cultural catching up’. Clothes, trends, language, and more have changed, too!
    6. Reserve judgments. Reserve all judgments of others, but especially negative judgments, just as you would like to have others reserve judgments of you. Resist the impulse to make snap decisions.
    7. Expect mood swings. It is entirely possible for you to feel ecstatic one moment and completely defeated a short time later. It’s okay; it is a part of the process.
    8. Allow sufficient time for reflection and self-analysis. Your most valuable analysis of an event is likely to take place after allowing time for reflection.
    9. Respond to inquiries thoughtfully and carefully. Prepare to greet surprise questions with a calm, thoughtful, approach. If you find yourself being overly defensive or aggressive, take a deep breath and relax.
    10. Seek support networks. Don't isolate yourself!

    Top 10 Things You Can Do To Be Healthy

    TOP 10 THINGS YOU CAN DO TO BE HEALTHY

    Staying healthy is an important part of a successful transition from custody to community. This list can be used as a reminder of important, and often overlooked things to do to stay healthy. 
    Check the Resources section to find services to support well-being including healthcare, nutrition, substance abuse, mental health and housing/shelter resources.

    DOWNLOAD THIS CHECKLIST TO PRINT FOR SOMEONE YOU KNOW (Re-Entry: Top 10 Things You Can Do To Be Healthy)
    1. Have a medical home and regular doctor
    2. Set screened for cancer
    3. Prevent heart disease and stroke
    4. Take care of your sexual health
    5. Get the vaccines you need (shots)
    6. Have a healthy baby; get prenatal care
    7. Exercise regularly
    8. Eat a healthy diet (and maintain a healthy weight)
    9. Check for and limit exposure to heavy metals like lead
    10. Get help for mental/emotional concerns like depression or anxiety

    Adapted from:
    http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/hhsa/programs/phs/sdreentrytoolkit/PHReentryToolkit.pdf

    Transition Plan (Combined with Links)

    Re-Entry Transition Plan

    This planning guide was created specifically for those being released from custody in Orange County, CA. It is intended to be printed for use by those who are about to be released or have been released from custody within the last 24 hours.

    Self-Evaluation

    The first thing to do when putting together a re‐entry plan is to make a list of the services you will need.
    A successful transition depends on making sure your basic needs are met. Since no one knows your needs better than you do, it’s important to be very clear about what you’ll need and what is available to you.
    Here are 9 questions to help you get ready for your transition from incarceration to the community.

    1. Who is picking you up, and where will you go?
    2. When will you check in with probation or parole for the first time? How will you get there?
    3. Where will you be staying? How long will you be able to stay there?
    4. What services are most important for you to access? Do you know how to get these services?
    5. How will you support yourself? What steps do you need to take to get a job or get financial help?
    6. Who can you rely on for emotional support?
    7. What will you do for fun?
    8. What is your plan for staying clean and sober?
    9. Which of these questions was the most challenging to answer, and which do you need to resolve first?

    Transition Checklist

    To start thinking about your needs, you can use this checklist as a starting point and reference sheet.
    Once you have a list, you can start planning how best to meet those needs.

    Potential Needs Notes/Contact Information for Referrals Helpful Links
    Identification
    CA ID/Driver License
    Social Security Card
    Birth Certificate    		  

    DMV.CA.gov - California Photo ID

    DMV.CA.gov - Drivers License

    SSA.gov - Social Security Card

    OCRecorder.com - Birth Certificate
    Housing
    Shelter
    Rental Deposit Assistance
    Low Income Rental Housing
    Substance Abuse Treatment / Sober Housing    		   Search our database for housing resources
    Basic Needs
    Food
    Clothing
    Transportation
    Communication (Phone, email, mailbox, etc.)
    		   Address your food needs at a food pantry or soup kitchen that serves your area. Expedited CalFresh (Food Stamps) benefits may also be available at the Orange County Social Services Agency.
    Benefits
    CalFresh (Food Stamps)
    CalWORKS (TANF) or General Relief (GR)
    Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
    Social Security Benefits (SSA)
    Veteran’s Benefits 
    		   Contact 211OC to be prescreened for benefits such as General Relief, CalWORKS (TANF), CalFresh (Food Stamps), and MediCal (Medicaid).
    Learn if you may be eligible for other California state or Federal benefits and programs using the myBenefitsCalWIN screening tool.
    Health/Wellness
    Medical Insurance
    Dental Services
    Mental Health Services / Counseling
    HIV/AIDS Services
    Substance Abuse Services
    Disability Services
    Family Support
    Pro-social activities 
    		   Resolve any immediate medical or mental health needs, such as prescription refills.

    Seek support networks. Visit supportive people like friends, family and other helpful people; or attend community meetings, such as AA, NA, Ex-Offender Re-Entry programs and/or faith community meetings.
    Education/Employment
    Job Training Programs
    Certification Programs
    Continuing Education (GED / Community College) 
    		   Seek employment opportunities. Visit a One-Stop, job assistance center or other employment program.
    Check the employment section of this online resource guide for more information.

    Parole/Probation Office

    Upon release from custody, report to the Parole or Probation office within 24 hours, as ordered by the Court, or as you were previously instructed.

    		  If you have questions regarding whether or not you are under supervision or you don’t know where to report, it is your responsibility to contact either Probation or Parole and confirm your supervision status.
     Other
    _______________________________
    _______________________________
    _______________________________
    		    

    My top 3 needs are: 
    1) ______________________________________________________________
    2) ______________________________________________________________
    3) ______________________________________________________________

    Re-Entry Feedback

    ONLINE RE-ENTRY RESOURCE GUIDE FEEDBACK

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    Re-entry information brought to you in partnership with the Orange County Re-Entry Partnership (OCREP).  Download a PDF about OCREP.

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