Reentry Grants & Programs: Federal, State, and Nonprofit Funding (2026)
A complete guide to grants and funding for reentry programs, job training, housing assistance, education, and support services for people with criminal records. Most grants go to organizations that run programs -- but you benefit directly through the services they provide.
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Quick Answer
There are significant federal, state, and nonprofit funding sources that support reentry programs across the country. The largest is the Second Chance Act (administered by the DOJ's Bureau of Justice Assistance), which has distributed over $1 billion since 2009 to fund reentry services including housing, employment, substance abuse treatment, and mentoring.
Other major federal sources include the Department of Labor's Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) grants for job training and placement, HUD's reentry housing programs, SAMHSA's substance abuse treatment grants, and the reinstated Pell Grant program for incarcerated individuals (effective July 2023).
Important distinction: most federal and state reentry grants go to organizations -- nonprofits, state agencies, local governments, and tribal entities -- not directly to individuals. However, individuals benefit through the free programs and services these grants fund. Some programs do provide direct financial assistance for things like housing deposits, work clothing, tools, or transportation.
To find programs near you, contact your local reentry coalition, search the National Reentry Resource Center directory, or call 211 for local referrals.
Federal Reentry Grants & Programs (2026)
These are the major federal funding sources for reentry. Most go to organizations that run free programs you can access.
| Grant / Program | Agency | Funding | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Second Chance Act Grants | DOJ / Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) | $100M-$150M annually | The largest federal reentry grant program. Funds comprehensive reentry services including case management, housing, employment, substance abuse and mental health treatment, mentoring, family reunification, and technology-based programs. Multiple funding streams including Adult Reentry, Young Adult Reentry, Family-Based Prisoner Reentry, and Reentry Courts. |
| Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) | DOL / Employment and Training Administration (ETA) | $80M-$100M annually | Funds job training, career pathways, apprenticeships, and employment services specifically for adults and young people returning from incarceration. Programs typically include occupational skills training, work readiness, job placement assistance, and post-placement support. Some grants focus on young adults ages 18-24. |
| Continuum of Care (CoC) / Reentry Housing | HUD | Varies by CoC region | HUD funds permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing for people experiencing homelessness, including returning citizens. Many CoC programs prioritize individuals exiting institutions including jails and prisons. Some communities have dedicated reentry housing set-asides within their CoC allocation. |
| Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) | DOJ / Bureau of Justice Assistance | $30M annually | Funds substance abuse treatment programs within state and local correctional facilities and in community-based settings for people on parole or post-release supervision. Programs must last 6-12 months and include individualized treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, and aftercare planning. |
| Federal Bonding Program | DOL | Up to $25,000 fidelity bond per worker | Provides free fidelity bonds to employers who hire people with criminal records, eliminating the employer's risk. The bond covers the first six months of employment at no cost to the employer or the worker. This directly benefits job seekers because it removes a major barrier -- employer concerns about theft or dishonesty bonding. |
| Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) | DOL / IRS | Up to $2,400 per qualified hire | Provides a tax credit of up to $2,400 to employers who hire individuals from targeted groups, including people with felony convictions hired within one year of conviction or release. While the credit goes to the employer, it directly benefits job seekers by making employers more willing to hire people with records. |
| Pell Grants (Reinstated for Incarcerated Individuals) | Department of Education | Up to $7,395/year (2025-2026 award year) | As of July 1, 2023, incarcerated individuals can once again receive Pell Grants for postsecondary education. This reversed a 1994 ban and expanded access to college courses, vocational training, and degree programs within correctional facilities. Eligible programs must be approved and offered by accredited institutions. This is one of the few federal programs that directly funds individuals. |
| SAMHSA Offender Reentry Program (ORP) | SAMHSA / HHS | $10M-$20M annually | Funds substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and recovery support for people returning from incarceration. Programs provide screening, assessment, treatment planning, peer recovery support, and connections to community-based services. Emphasis on evidence-based practices and medication-assisted treatment. |
The largest federal reentry grant program. Funds comprehensive reentry services including case management, housing, employment, substance abuse and mental health treatment, mentoring, family reunification, and technology-based programs. Multiple funding streams including Adult Reentry, Young Adult Reentry, Family-Based Prisoner Reentry, and Reentry Courts.
Funds job training, career pathways, apprenticeships, and employment services specifically for adults and young people returning from incarceration. Programs typically include occupational skills training, work readiness, job placement assistance, and post-placement support. Some grants focus on young adults ages 18-24.
HUD funds permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing for people experiencing homelessness, including returning citizens. Many CoC programs prioritize individuals exiting institutions including jails and prisons. Some communities have dedicated reentry housing set-asides within their CoC allocation.
Funds substance abuse treatment programs within state and local correctional facilities and in community-based settings for people on parole or post-release supervision. Programs must last 6-12 months and include individualized treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, and aftercare planning.
Provides free fidelity bonds to employers who hire people with criminal records, eliminating the employer's risk. The bond covers the first six months of employment at no cost to the employer or the worker. This directly benefits job seekers because it removes a major barrier -- employer concerns about theft or dishonesty bonding.
Provides a tax credit of up to $2,400 to employers who hire individuals from targeted groups, including people with felony convictions hired within one year of conviction or release. While the credit goes to the employer, it directly benefits job seekers by making employers more willing to hire people with records.
As of July 1, 2023, incarcerated individuals can once again receive Pell Grants for postsecondary education. This reversed a 1994 ban and expanded access to college courses, vocational training, and degree programs within correctional facilities. Eligible programs must be approved and offered by accredited institutions. This is one of the few federal programs that directly funds individuals.
Funds substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and recovery support for people returning from incarceration. Programs provide screening, assessment, treatment planning, peer recovery support, and connections to community-based services. Emphasis on evidence-based practices and medication-assisted treatment.
State Reentry Programs (Selected States)
Every state has reentry programs funded by federal and state grants. Here are notable programs in 15 states. Contact your state's Department of Corrections or call 211 to find programs in your area.
California
- California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) Innovative Programming Grants
Funds community-based organizations to provide rehabilitative programs in state prisons and for parolees, including education, job training, substance abuse treatment, and family reunification.
- CalWORKs Welfare-to-Work
Provides job training, education, and support services to individuals receiving CalWORKs benefits, including formerly incarcerated individuals. May include transportation, child care, and work-related expenses.
Texas
- Texas Reentry Task Force Programs
Coordinates reentry services across 22 reentry task forces statewide, connecting returning citizens with employment, housing, substance abuse treatment, and mentoring programs.
- Texas Workforce Commission Reentry Services
Provides job placement, career counseling, resume assistance, and occupational skills training through local workforce boards for people with criminal records.
New York
- New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) Reentry Programs
Funds county-level reentry task forces and community organizations providing case management, employment, housing, and supportive services for people returning from incarceration.
- NYC Mayor's Office of Criminal Justice -- Reentry Initiatives
Funds comprehensive reentry services in New York City including Jails to Jobs, supervised release, and connections to housing, employment, and health services.
Florida
- Florida Department of Corrections Transition Services
Provides pre-release planning, post-release supervision, and connections to community services including housing, employment, and substance abuse treatment for individuals returning to Florida communities.
- CareerSource Florida Reentry Programs
Offers job training, career counseling, and employment placement through the state workforce system for individuals with criminal records.
Illinois
- Illinois Department of Corrections Reentry Programs
Funds community-based organizations providing comprehensive reentry services including Safer Return (Chicago), employment, housing, family services, and substance abuse treatment.
- Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) Reentry Grants
Administers state and federal funds for reentry programs including adult transition centers, day reporting centers, and community-based service providers.
Ohio
- Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction Reentry Programs
Operates a statewide reentry network including Reentry Resource Centers in major cities, providing employment, housing, identification assistance, and community connections.
- Ohio Reentry Coalition
A statewide network of organizations providing coordinated reentry services, peer mentoring, and community support for returning citizens.
Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) Reentry Grants
Administers state and federal funds for county reentry programs, including housing, employment, substance abuse treatment, and victim services.
- Pennsylvania Reentry Council
Coordinates statewide reentry policy and programming, connecting returning citizens with employment, housing, and supportive services through county-level reentry coalitions.
Michigan
- Michigan Department of Corrections Offender Success Program
A comprehensive reentry model that begins at intake and continues through community supervision. Provides employment readiness, housing assistance, substance abuse treatment, and mentoring.
- Michigan Prisoner ReEntry Initiative (MPRI)
Statewide initiative connecting returning citizens with community resources including jobs, housing, healthcare, and family services through local reentry councils.
Georgia
- Georgia Department of Community Supervision Reentry Services
Provides transitional support including employment assistance, substance abuse treatment, cognitive behavioral programs, and community partnerships for people on supervision.
- Georgia Justice Project
Provides holistic reentry services including legal defense, career development, housing, and record restriction assistance for people with criminal records in the Atlanta area.
North Carolina
- North Carolina Department of Public Safety Reintegration Support
Provides pre-release planning, post-release supervision, and connections to housing, employment, and treatment services through probation and parole officers.
- NC CURE (Citizens United for Rehabilitation of Errants)
Advocates for criminal justice reform and provides reentry resource connections, mentoring, and peer support for returning citizens and their families.
Virginia
- Virginia Department of Corrections Reentry Services
Provides comprehensive reentry planning beginning 18 months before release, including employment readiness, substance abuse treatment, and community resource connections.
- OAR (Offender Aid and Restoration) of Virginia
Provides direct services to incarcerated individuals and returning citizens including job readiness, housing assistance, benefits enrollment, and emergency financial assistance.
Washington
- Washington State Department of Corrections Reentry Division
Coordinates reentry services including housing, employment, education, and substance abuse treatment through community partnerships and reentry navigators.
- Pioneer Human Services
Provides housing, employment, job training, substance abuse treatment, and reentry support across Washington state. Operates social enterprises that employ returning citizens.
Colorado
- Colorado Division of Criminal Justice Reentry Grants
Administers state and federal funds for reentry programs including Second Chance Act grants, community-based transitional services, and evidence-based supervision practices.
- Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition (CCJRC)
Coordinates statewide advocacy, direct services, and peer support for currently and formerly incarcerated individuals, with focus on community reintegration.
Massachusetts
- Massachusetts Reentry Initiative (MRI)
A collaborative reentry program connecting individuals leaving county houses of correction with community services including employment, housing, substance abuse treatment, and mentoring.
- Community Resources for Justice (CRJ)
Operates transitional housing, workforce development, and community reintegration programs for adults returning from incarceration in the Greater Boston area.
New Jersey
- New Jersey State Parole Board Reentry Programs
Provides pre-release planning, post-release supervision, and connections to employment, housing, substance abuse treatment, and community organizations through reentry specialists.
- New Jersey Reentry Corporation (NJRC)
Provides comprehensive one-stop reentry services including job training and placement, housing assistance, legal services, mentoring, and family reunification. Founded by former NJ Governor Jim McGreevey.
Not in one of these states? Call 211 or visit 211.org to find reentry programs in your area. You can also search the National Reentry Resource Center directory.
Nonprofit Reentry Programs
These national organizations provide free reentry services funded by grants. Programs are free to participants.
Focus: Training, resources, and best practices for reentry programs | Funding: Technical assistance (not direct grants)
Operated by the Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center with federal funding, the NRRC provides training, technical assistance, and resources to organizations that serve people returning from incarceration. While they do not provide direct grants, they help organizations access funding and implement evidence-based programs.
Focus: Immediate employment and job placement for returning citizens | Funding: Funded programs (free to participants)
Provides immediate, paid transitional employment, job coaching, and full-time job placement for people recently released from incarceration. Operating in 13 states, CEO offers same-day paid work crews so participants earn income starting on day one while building work history and skills.
Focus: Comprehensive reentry services in New York City | Funding: Funded programs (free to participants)
Provides a full range of reentry services including emergency housing (the Fortune Academy), permanent supportive housing, employment, education (GED, college prep), substance abuse treatment, mental health counseling, family services, and legal assistance. All programs are free to participants.
Focus: Employment-focused reentry in Illinois and Iowa | Funding: Funded programs (free to participants)
One of the nation's largest community-based providers of employment and reentry services for people with criminal records. Provides job readiness training, job placement, support services, and advocacy. Operates programs in Chicago, the Chicago suburbs, and Iowa.
Focus: Job training, employment, and support services | Funding: Varies by location
Many local Goodwill organizations operate dedicated reentry programs providing job training, employment placement, career counseling, and support services for people with criminal records. Programs vary by location but are generally free to participants. Contact your local Goodwill for available reentry programs.
Focus: Transitional housing, substance abuse treatment, and life skills | Funding: Varies by location
Many Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Centers and community centers offer reentry programs including transitional housing, substance abuse treatment, job readiness, life skills training, and spiritual support. Programs vary by location and are generally free or very low cost.
Focus: Community-based reentry coalitions and direct services | Funding: Varies by community
Many local United Ways fund or operate reentry programs as part of their community impact work. Services typically include 211 helpline referrals, employment programs, housing assistance, and connections to health and human services. Call 211 to find local reentry programs.
Types of Reentry Funding: Who Gets the Money?
Understanding how reentry funding works is important because most grants do not go directly to individuals. Here is how the funding typically flows:
Federal grants from agencies like DOJ, DOL, HUD, and SAMHSA go to organizations -- state and local governments, tribal entities, and nonprofits. These organizations then use the money to run programs that serve individuals. For example, a Second Chance Act grant might fund a nonprofit that provides free job training, housing assistance, and case management for people leaving prison.
Some programs do provide direct financial assistance to individuals. Examples include Pell Grants (for education), emergency assistance funds (for housing deposits, work clothing, tools, and transportation), and the Federal Bonding Program (free employer bonds). But these are the exception rather than the rule.
The key takeaway: you do not need to apply for federal grants yourself. Instead, find local organizations that have received these grants and sign up for their programs. The services are almost always free to participants because the grant money pays for them.
How to Find Reentry Programs Near You
Finding available reentry programs in your area is the most important step. Here are the best ways to do it:
Call 211. This is the single best starting point. Dial 2-1-1 from any phone to connect with a trained specialist who can tell you about reentry programs, housing, employment services, food assistance, and other resources in your area. It is free, confidential, and available 24/7 in most areas.
Contact your local reentry coalition. Most counties and many cities have reentry coalitions or task forces that coordinate services. Search for "[your county] reentry coalition" or "[your city] reentry services" online.
Visit the National Reentry Resource Center website (nationalreentryresourcecenter.org). They maintain a directory of reentry programs and resources organized by state.
Ask your probation or parole officer. They should be aware of funded programs in your area and can provide referrals.
Contact your state Department of Corrections reentry division. Every state has one, and they can direct you to funded programs.
Visit a local American Job Center (find one at careeronestop.org). These federally funded one-stop career centers provide free employment services and know about local reentry employment programs.
Education Funding for People with Records
Education is one of the strongest predictors of successful reentry, and there is more funding available than most people realize.
Pell Grants are now available again for incarcerated individuals. As of July 2023, the ban that had been in place since 1994 was lifted. Incarcerated students can receive up to $7,395 per year (2025-2026 award year) for approved education programs offered in correctional facilities by accredited institutions. After release, anyone who meets income requirements can apply for Pell Grants regardless of criminal history.
Federal student loans are available to people with criminal records. A criminal record does not disqualify you from federal student aid (FAFSA), with limited exceptions for certain drug convictions during periods of enrollment. Complete the FAFSA at studentaid.gov.
Many colleges offer second chance scholarships specifically for people with criminal records. Organizations like the Vera Institute of Justice maintain lists of colleges with prison education programs.
Vocational training programs funded by DOL reentry grants are free to participants and can lead to certifications in high-demand fields like construction, welding, CDL driving, healthcare, IT, and manufacturing.
GED and high school equivalency programs are widely available through community colleges, adult education centers, and some reentry organizations at no cost.
Housing Assistance for Returning Citizens
Housing is one of the biggest challenges after release, and several grant programs specifically address this need.
HUD Continuum of Care (CoC) programs fund permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing in many communities. Contact your local CoC (search at hudexchange.info) to find available housing programs.
Second Chance Act grants fund transitional housing programs in many communities. These programs provide temporary housing (typically 6-24 months) along with case management and support services while you find permanent housing.
Some communities have dedicated reentry housing vouchers through their local housing authority. Ask your reentry coordinator or parole officer about availability.
Emergency assistance programs funded by state and federal grants may help with security deposits, first month's rent, and utility deposits. These are typically administered through local nonprofits and community action agencies.
For more information on finding housing with a criminal record, see our second chance apartments guides which cover specific cities and states.
Employment Grants and Programs
Employment is critical for successful reentry, and substantial federal and state funding supports job training and placement programs.
DOL Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO) grants fund programs across the country that provide free occupational skills training, apprenticeships, job readiness workshops, resume help, interview preparation, and job placement assistance. These programs are run by local nonprofits and workforce agencies.
The Federal Bonding Program removes a major barrier by providing free fidelity bonds to employers who hire people with records. Ask your local American Job Center about bonding.
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) gives employers a tax credit of up to $2,400 for hiring someone with a felony conviction within one year of conviction or release. This makes employers more willing to hire -- you can mention this benefit during job interviews.
Many states have their own employment programs for returning citizens. Texas has the Reentry Task Forces and Texas Workforce Commission services. New York has the Center for Employment Opportunities operating in multiple locations. Illinois has the Safer Foundation. Check with your state workforce agency for locally funded programs.
For immediate employment leads, see our list of companies that hire people with criminal records.
Tips for Accessing Reentry Grants and Programs
Here are practical tips for finding and accessing the services funded by reentry grants:
Start before release if possible. Many reentry programs begin pre-release planning months before your release date. Ask your case manager or counselor about available programs.
Be persistent. Programs may have waitlists or limited slots. Apply to multiple programs and follow up regularly. If one program is full, ask for referrals to alternatives.
Keep documentation organized. Have copies of your ID, release papers, any certificates or training records, and contact information for your parole or probation officer. Many programs will need this paperwork.
Ask about wraparound services. The best reentry programs provide comprehensive support -- not just job training, but also housing assistance, transportation, child care, substance abuse treatment, and mental health services. Look for programs that address multiple needs.
Connect with peer mentors. Many reentry organizations employ people who have been through the system themselves. These peer mentors can navigate the process with you and provide invaluable support.
Do not pay for reentry services. Legitimate reentry programs funded by government grants are free to participants. Be wary of anyone asking you to pay for services that should be free -- especially job placement, housing referrals, or expungement assistance. If something feels wrong, contact your local legal aid organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can individuals apply for reentry grants directly?
What is the Second Chance Act and how does it help me?
Can incarcerated people get Pell Grants again?
How do I find reentry programs in my area?
Are reentry programs really free?
What is the Federal Bonding Program?
Can I get help with housing after release?
What employment programs are available for people with criminal records?
Take Action -- Direct Links
- DOJ -- Second Chance Act Programs
Overview of the largest federal reentry grant program, including current funding opportunities and funded projects
- DOL -- Reentry Employment Opportunities
Federal employment and training programs for people returning from incarceration
- National Reentry Resource Center
Training, resources, and a searchable directory of reentry programs by state
- SAMHSA -- Substance Abuse Treatment Locator
Find free and low-cost substance abuse and mental health treatment programs in your area
- Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Apply for Pell Grants and federal student loans -- criminal records generally do not disqualify you
- American Job Center Locator
Find free employment services, job training, and reentry programs at your local American Job Center
- 211.org -- Find Local Help
Call 211 or visit online to find local reentry programs, housing, food, healthcare, and other services
- Federal Bonding Program
Free fidelity bonds for employers who hire people with criminal records -- removes a major hiring barrier
- SecondChanceInfo -- Reentry Checklist
Free personalized 30/60/90-day reentry plan covering ID, housing, jobs, benefits, and more
Related Guides
Sources
- U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance -- Second Chance Act
- U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration -- Reentry
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development -- Continuum of Care
- SAMHSA -- Grants and Funding
- National Reentry Resource Center (CSG Justice Center)
- Federal Student Aid -- Pell Grants
- U.S. Department of Labor -- Federal Bonding Program
- U.S. Department of Labor -- Work Opportunity Tax Credit