​VIRGINIA CARES WINGS PROGRAM – A WOMEN’S REENTRY PROGRAM

CARES Women’s Program will be a holistic women’s program designed to empower and provide gender-responsive services to women who are re-entering their communities after incarceration.  It is our belief that through the power of self-awareness, healing, and connection, our clients can build and maintain a meaningful life for themselves, their loved ones, and their communities.
  • Eligibility – Pre-release:  Women of any age with one year (or less) of incarceration remaining.  Post-release:  Women of any age who have not been out of incarceration for more than 12-months.
  • Program Length – Up to three years of program enrollment, including up to one year of pre-release services and two years of post-release services. Follow-up services will also be provided upon client request after post-release services have ended.
  • Services – In addition to the women-specific services, participants will have access to the full VA CARES General Program (i.e. OST,) Motivational Interviewing, job readiness, employment placement, and more).
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  • Monthly empowerment workshops to help diminish barriers and improve access. Workshops will include parenting, healthy living, self-care and self-love, and more.
  • Supportive services, including connections to transitional housing, mental health and substance abuse treatment, transportation, and childcare. If clients need assistance obtaining their license, birth certificate, social security card or other important documentation, case management staff will assist or offer guidance.
  • Employment and education opportunities in partnership with local colleges and employers to connect clients with educational and vocational training opportunities, apprenticeships, financial resources specifically for education/training, tutoring, literacy programs, and school documentation assistance. An additional aspect of the peer groups will be group study opportunities.
For more Information Contact:
Shiquita Lee- Case Manager 540.283.4902 or  540.824.0068
Ora Dickerson Mental Health Navigator 540.977.8356
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Virginia First Time Loan Program For Returning Citizens

New Affordable Dollar Loan Program is NOW AVAVILABLE for Returning Citizens in the ROANOKE - METROPOLITAN and NEW RIVER VALLEY areas!! Please contact Anthony West at 540.342.9344 ext. 102 or Shannon Lowery​ in NEW RIVER VALLEY at 540.392.7819 for more information!!! "YOU DON"T WANT TO MISS OUT ON THIS AMAZING OPPORTUNITY TO JUMP START YOUR FUTURE!!"

​HIGHER EDUCATION AFTER INCARCERATION


HIGHER EDUCATION AFTER INCARCERATION Written by: Intelligent.com Higher Education Team - Published on July 25, 2022

According to a 2018 Prison Policy Initiative report, 25% of formerly incarcerated people don’t have a high school diploma or equivalency — this is nearly twice as high as the rate for the general public. Also, only 4% of formerly incarcerated folks have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher, while 25% of the general public has reached this level of education. Additionally, people with conviction records have an exceptionally high unemployment rate of 27%.
Higher education provides formerly incarcerated people with the ability to find good job opportunities and get their lives back on track. Indeed, people with prior convictions who enroll in college degree programs are 48% less likely to be incarcerated again than those who do not. Education benefits both formerly incarcerated people and society, as lower rates of recidivism lead to safer neighborhoods and less need to dedicate tax dollars to the prison system.
In this guide, we review how to get into college, the best degrees for people with prior convictions, and everything else that formerly incarcerated folks should know about higher education.
How To Continue Your Education After Incarceration

Going back to school after being incarcerated can be challenging. With all of the legal restrictions and institutional biases involved with this process, you may not even know where to start.
Every person’s situation is different. Some people haven’t yet obtained a high school diploma, while others have already earned a college degree. Below, we’ve broken down the next steps that people with conviction records should take in a variety of different scenarios.
What if I’m returning to college to finish a degree?If you were incarcerated while attending college, you may find that it’s difficult to go back to school to complete your degree program. Any student who has missed more than two semesters will usually need to reapply to enroll in classes again, and most college applications have a question about prior convictions. If you are asked about this, answer truthfully — being upfront about your status as someone with a conviction record will help prevent any issues from developing later on in the process of obtaining your degree. But it may lower your odds of being accepted back into the program and restrict your access to financial aid.
What if I graduated from a prison education program?To reduce recidivism rates, all federal prisons and most state prisons have programs that allow people in their care to earn their General Educational Development (GED) certificate, also known as a high school equivalency. Some prisons offer more advanced programs that allow folks to earn an associate degree or even a bachelor’s degree.
Once you’ve been released from prison, you can apply to colleges to further your education. If there are any travel restrictions associated with your release, consider enrolling in a degree program that allows you to take all of your required classes online at first.
What if I don’t have a high school diploma?It is helpful for formerly incarcerated people who don’t have a high school diploma or equivalency to obtain their GED certificate as soon as possible. This is an important step to setting yourself up for success. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average worker with a high school diploma makes $712 per week, while the average worker with less education only makes $520 per week.
Anyone who’s over 16 years old and not currently enrolled in high school is eligible to take the GED exam, which is broken up into four tests that cover the following subject areas: mathematical reasoning, reasoning through language arts, social studies, and science. You can schedule your test and access study materials through GED.com.
What if I earned a degree during or before incarceration and I want to go to graduate school?As with applying to an undergraduate degree program, you may be asked if you have any prior convictions when applying to graduate school. It’s in your best interest to disclose this information whenever you are prompted to do so. This often isn’t a problem. You may be rejected from particular grad school programs if your conviction will prevent you from obtaining a license in your field once you have your degree, though. For example, those who have been convicted of possessing or selling illegal drugs may not get accepted into a Master of Pharmacy program. But occupational licensing laws vary by state and admissions policies vary by school, so check with any graduate school you’re interested in rather than assume it’s not an option for you.
What You Should Know About Returning to School as a Formerly Incarcerated PersonBeing a student comes with many stresses, such as figuring out which courses you need to take to satisfy your degree requirements and maintaining a high GPA. Formerly incarcerated people must overcome additional challenges (keeping up with parole stipulations and staying away from substances and associates that can lead back to criminal activity) to obtain their degree. This can certainly be difficult, but there are many resources available that will help you avoid mistakes and achieve academic success.
How to choose a majorIt’s important to follow your passions when deciding on a major, but also be realistic about the limitations that may apply to your career due to your prior convictions. The roadblocks that you might have to deal with on your particular career path will depend on which types of crimes you’ve been convicted of. For example, if you were convicted of any white-collar crimes related to financial fraud, you likely won’t be able to find employment in the finance industry.
If you’re having trouble choosing a major, check out Minnesota State University’s resources for Career Planning for People with a Criminal Conviction. This website offers self-assessment quizzes, information on different career paths, and planning tools that you can use to figure out your next move.
How to find grants and scholarships for nontraditional studentsHaving prior convictions on your record will often limit your access to financial aid. To help compensate for these lost resources, seek out scholarships and grants that are designed specifically for people in the care of jails and prisons as well as formerly incarcerated folks. Some colleges offer such financial aid awards. For example, Wheaton College provides assistance to people with conviction records through their Charles W. Colson Scholarship, and New York University School of Law has a similar program with their PREP Scholarship Fund. There are also many private foundations that offer scholarships for formerly incarcerated people. Once you’re enrolled in an institution of higher learning, reach out to your school’s financial aid office to see which financing options are available to you.
University support for nontraditional studentsIn addition to financial aid, your school likely provides other resources that will help you succeed in your degree program. Campus advisors can help you make decisions regarding course selection and other academic areas, and there may be free tutoring services that can provide extra assistance with any subjects you’re struggling with. Most colleges offer counselors who can help you work through any non-academic issues in your life as well. While these services are generally provided to all students, they are especially useful for people with conviction records.
Financial Assistance After IncarcerationYou may be able to save yourself a trip to the financial aid office by reading this section of our guide first. From the restrictions on federal aid to your other options for funding your degree program, we address some of the most asked-about topics regarding financial assistance for formerly incarcerated folks.
Can you get financial aid as a person with a conviction record?You can receive financial aid as a person with a conviction record, but your options may be limited.
Pell Grants are the most popular financial aid program in the country. Millions of college students receive this award, which is determined by your income and provides up to $6,495 in funding per year as of 2022. There are two other top options for federal student aid. The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant provides up to $4,000 per year, and Federal Student Loans provide up to $65,500 in subsidized loans over the course of your degree program.
There used to be a policy that if you were convicted of possessing or selling illegal drugs while receiving federal student aid, you would be ineligible for these programs even after you completed your sentence. This policy is no longer in effect. You will still be ineligible if you are subject to an involuntary civil commitment for a sexual offense, though.
What other ways can people with conviction records get financial help for higher education?If federal student aid doesn’t fully cover the cost of your degree, you can apply to any private scholarships you qualify for. Many private scholarship programs accept applications from formerly incarcerated people, and some programs are even designed specifically to help folks with conviction records further their education. For example, if you were in the care of the Rhode Island Department of Corrections facility, you may be able to get up to $1,000 from the Transcending Through Education Foundation Scholarship. Strong academic performance is often a requirement for these scholarships, so be sure to keep your grades up.
Best Degrees if You Have a Criminal Conviction

While many other occupations are available to you, two career paths are an especially good fit for people with conviction records: social work and entrepreneurship.
With social work, your background can actually give you an advantage in the job market, as it may allow you to be more relatable and effective in the field. And as for entrepreneurship, this career path gives you the ability to avoid the difficulties of the job search process by becoming your own boss. The following degree programs will help you break into one of these industries.
Master in Social WorkSome organizations look specifically for folks with conviction records to serve as counselors for the currently incarcerated. Your background may also have prepared you for roles such as helping others deal with trauma or teaching at-risk youth how to avoid mistakes. To get licensed as a professional counselor, most states will require you to have earned a graduate degree, such as a Master in Social Work (MSW).
Bachelor in Substance Abuse CounselingWhether they were directly charged with drug-related crimes or their use of drugs led to other forms of criminal activity, the main reason many formerly incarcerated people have any prior convictions is substance abuse. This is another area of social work where direct experience can help you be more effective in the field.
Associate in PsychologyThis two-year degree program will qualify you for entry-level positions in the social work industry, such as research associate and counseling assistant. It’s also a good place to start if you are interested in the more advanced social work degree programs described above.
Bachelor in Business AdministrationThis degree program will teach you everything you need to know to start a company — you’ll learn about core business principles such as accounting, finance, and marketing. If you’re more interested in climbing the corporate ladder than launching your own venture, consider obtaining a Master in Business Administration (MBA) degree, as this will make you a more attractive candidate for management positions.
Bachelor in Hotel and Restaurant ManagementIf you’re interested in opening a hospitality business such as a motel, cafe, or restaurant, this specialized degree makes more sense than a general business administration program. It’s also worth noting that getting hired at a restaurant often doesn’t require passing a background check, which provides plenty of job opportunities for people with conviction records in the culinary industry.
Bachelor in Construction ManagementConstruction is another industry that often doesn’t require candidates for open positions to pass a background check. In a construction management degree program, you’ll learn about structural design concepts, blueprint reading, building information modeling (BIM) software, and other topics that will help you move up in this field.
Non-Traditional Educational Routes for People with Conviction RecordsGoing to college isn’t the only way to learn skills that will help advance your career. Considering all the barriers to financial aid and professional licensing for formerly incarcerated people, one of the following non-traditional educational routes may work better for you:
Government work programsThe best method for learning new job skills is to get firsthand experience at work, but many employers avoid hiring anyone with prior convictions. To address this problem, the federal government provides tax credits and other financial benefits to businesses that are willing to hire people with conviction records. You can use the Federal Bonding Program website to find participating employers in your area.
Trade schoolTrades such as fire science, culinary arts, and auto repair are more welcoming to formerly incarcerated folks than most other occupations. As an added bonus, earning your credentials for these jobs is usually much more affordable than completing a traditional college program.
Boot campsWorkers in the software development industry are highly in demand and well-compensated, and online coding bootcamps allow you to learn the skills you need for these jobs in just a few months from the comfort of your own home. If you live in Washington state, check out the Prison Scholar Fund’s partnership with Coding Dojo — this program covers all of Coding Dojo’s course fees and provides a living stipend for five students with prior convictions.
Advocacy Programs and Resources for People with Conviction Records Returning to SchoolThe following resources can also provide you with valuable information for furthering your education and other issues that affect people with conviction records.
CareerOneStop State Resource FinderThis directory, which is maintained by the U.S. Department of Labor, helps folks find housing, food assistance, and other services in their state.
Restoration of Rights ProjectIn addition to federal laws, many of the regulations regarding people with conviction records are set at the state level — this makes it hard to fully grasp the legal situation for any given person with prior convictions. The Restoration of Rights Project provides a state-by-state breakdown so it is much easier to understand the employment, licensing, and housing laws that apply to you.
Volunteers of AmericaThis nationwide organization was founded back in 1896 — its correctional re-entry services include literacy training, housing assistance, and inpatient substance abuse treatment programs.
Apprenticeship.govApprenticeships provide you with both a paid job and training that you can use to advance your career. On this website, you’ll find more information about the benefits of these arrangements as well as an Apprenticeship Job Finder that can connect you to opportunities in your area.
Help for FelonsHelp for Felons provides a variety of resources to previously incarcerated people, including information on scholarships, housing, and food stamps. The organization also maintains a job board that is updated weekly with new opportunities.



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A GUIDE TO FINDING HOUSING FOR THE PREVIOUSLY Incarcerated Author

Alexis Bennett Reviewer
Alexis Curls Updated On
August 21, 2023

Photo by Maria Ziegler on Unsplash
Why You Can Trust Us
For many individuals stepping back into society after incarceration, finding a stable place to call home can be complicated. The reality is that those who have been previously incarcerated are almost 10 times more likely to face homelessness compared to the general public. With over 725,000 people leaving state and federal prisons each year, the quest for housing becomes not only a personal challenge but a broader societal concern. Stable housing is crucial for successful reintegration, providing a foundation for building a new chapter in life. In this article, we’ll shed light on the challenges and offer empowering resources for those on their journey to find housing after prison.
Table of Contents Understanding the Housing LandscapeIn the vast expanse of the U.S. housing sector, private housing dominates, representing a whopping 97% of the total housing stock. For those transitioning back into society after incarceration, this landscape presents unique challenges and intricacies.
Housing Barriers: One of the most immediate hurdles many formerly incarcerated individuals face is discrimination. Both public housing authorities and private property owners can be selective, often unfairly so, towards those with a criminal past. Amid already escalating challenges like housing shortages and skyrocketing rental prices, many ex-offenders find themselves facing additional scrutiny and prejudice. The stark reality is that even a full-time worker earning minimum wage can’t afford a two-bedroom rental home at fair market rent anywhere in the United States, making the situation even grimmer for those with a record. Most landlords now conduct criminal background checks, further narrowing the options for these individuals.
Housing Laws: Diving deeper into the legal framework shows that housing laws and regulations can be stacked against those with criminal records. The National Inventory of Collateral Consequences of Conviction, reveals, as of 2021, over 1,300 illegal record-related barriers across various jurisdictions and an additional 26 at the federal level. These range from mandatory background checks to outright denial of fair housing law protections, evictions, and more.
Available Housing Options Despite these challenges, hope is not lost. Several living situations are available for those on the path to reentry. Federally assisted housing, as highlighted by the National Housing Law Project (NHLP), becomes a beacon for many. Yet, even here, strict admission policies can create further complications.
In sum, navigating the housing sector after incarceration is no easy feat. But understanding the landscape and the intricacies involved is the first step towards securing a stable home and a brighter future.
Utilizing Support Services:
Photo by Maria Ziegler on Unsplash The journey to stable housing and gainful employment after incarceration can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that both government agencies and independent organizations are there to provide support. Harnessing these resources can make the road to reentry smoother and more achievable.
Financial Resources For Formerly Incarcerated Individuals The Prisoner Reentry Financial Fund: This initiative’s primary aim is supporting formerly incarcerated individuals to handle crucial expenses. It covers areas such as housing, transportation, and job training, making the transition to societal life a bit smoother.
Vera Institute of Justice: Taking commendable steps to facilitate reintegration, the Vera Institute of Justice offers an array of resources. From tools promoting financial literacy to assistance in job searches, as well as a comprehensive database of reentry programs, this organization provides a holistic approach to support.
Housing Choice Vouchers (formerly Section 8): Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), these vouchers play a pivotal role for those in the low-income bracket, simplifying the challenge of affording private rental housing.
Federal Second Chance Pell Grant Program: Targeted towards those who are slated for release within a half-decade, this program extends financial aid, ensuring that the bridge to reentry is financially less daunting.
Housing Resources For Formerly Incarcerated Individuals U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): HUD offers a comprehensive array of housing programs designed specifically for low-income groups. Its initiatives are especially beneficial for those reintegrating into society after incarceration.
The Fortune Society: This organization is distinctive in its mission to support the formerly incarcerated — especially those who are homeless. It provides a foundation for rebuilding lives with affordable and supportive housing options.
The Osborne Association: Venturing beyond traditional support, this organization is transforming a previous prison facility in New York into the Fulton Community Reentry Center. It’s also launched the Kinship Reentry and Marcus Garvey supportive housing programs, which cater to diverse housing needs.
Employment Resources For Formerly Incarcerated IndividualsCenter for Employment Opportunities: Operating in multiple cities throughout the United States, this center is dedicated to connecting formerly incarcerated individuals with both housing and job opportunities, ensuring a holistic approach to reintegration.
National Reentry Resource Center: An invaluable resource, this center offers a detailed directory of programs that focus on job training and placement, simplifying the search for those looking to restart their professional journeys.
Goodwill Industries: Renowned for its extensive support, Goodwill offers specialized training and job placement services, particularly for individuals with criminal records — ensuring they have the tools and opportunities for a fresh start.
2nd Chance 4 Felons: A beacon for those uncertain about their next steps, this platform introduces job seekers to employers open to hiring individuals with criminal backgrounds, breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity.
These resources can make the reintegration process more manageable, opening doors to opportunities and hope for a brighter future.
Creating a Housing Plan
Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on UnsplashReestablishing oneself after incarceration often comes with unique challenges. One of the most difficult hurdles is securing a place to call home. Instead of navigating this process blindly, it’s essential to have a strategic housing plan to guide your steps.
Define Housing PrioritiesBegin by asking yourself what truly matters in your living space. Do you need a quiet environment? Is safety paramount? Maybe accessibility to certain amenities or a yard is vital for you. Some may place importance on the availability of public transit, while others might need proximity to healthcare facilities. Recognizing these needs and preferences is the foundation for a successful housing search.
Determine BudgetOne of the most critical aspects of housing is cost. What can you realistically afford in terms of rent, utilities, and other related expenses? You should also factor in one-time costs like security deposits or fees related to setting up utilities. Remember, beyond the monthly rent, consider expenses such as electricity, water, gas, and internet. Additionally, if you’ve kept belongings elsewhere, calculate the costs associated with moving them into your new place, whether that means hiring a truck or seeking assistance from friends and family.
Consider LocationFinding the perfect spot isn’t solely about the physical attributes of the residence but also its location. Consider how close it is to essential services like grocery stores, medical centers, public transportation, and employment opportunities. Being near supportive community resources or organizations that assist formerly incarcerated individuals can also be beneficial. Equally vital is the proximity to any personal support networks you might have, such as family or friends. Being close to these support systems can play a pivotal role in your reentry and provide an added layer of stability during times of uncertainty.
Crafting a solid housing plan, while it might seem complex, is a proactive step that can significantly alleviate the anxieties associated with reentry. With clarity on priorities, budget, and location, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions and find a place where you can rebuild, grow, and move forward.
Securing and Maintaining HousingAfter laying out a detailed housing plan, the next steps are securing and maintaining your housing, which involves navigating the ins and outs of the tenant-landlord relationship and thriving in your new environment.
Tenant RightsEvery individual, regardless of their past, has rights as a tenant. These rights often include protection against discrimination, the right to a habitable living space, and the right to privacy. Familiarize yourself with local and federal laws that protect you. Know that you’re entitled to fair treatment and that there are legal avenues for recourse if your rights are violated.
Lease AgreementBefore moving in, there will likely be a lease agreement to sign. This document is a binding contract between you and the landlord detailing the terms of your stay, rent payment, maintenance responsibilities, and other crucial elements. Read the agreement thoroughly. Ensure you understand all its sections, from the duration of the lease to the conditions for termination. Ask questions if anything seems unclear, and always keep a copy for reference.
Community ConnectionOnce you’ve secured your housing, building connections within the community can greatly assist in maintaining it. This might involve getting to know your neighbors, participating in community events, or even joining local support groups. Establishing these connections can not only create a sense of belonging but also foster a support network that can be invaluable if challenges arise.
In the journey of reentry, securing housing is a significant milestone — but maintaining it, understanding your rights, and forming bonds in your new community are equally vital to ensuring long-term stability and success.
Continuing Personal Growth and ReintegrationAs individuals progress through the journey of reintegration, personal growth remains a central pillar. Securing housing, employment, and community connections is essential, but nurturing one’s mental and emotional well-being is equally crucial to ensure a holistic and successful reentry into society.
Mental Health and Self-CareTransitioning back into society can be both an exciting and challenging experience laden with  myriad emotions. Addressing any mental health concerns, seeking professional help if needed, and regularly practicing self-care can pave the way for smoother adjustments. This might involve joining support groups, attending therapy, or simply engaging in activities that foster relaxation and self-reflection.
Overcoming ChallengesSetbacks are a natural part of life and can be even more pronounced during reintegration. Embracing resilience, seeking guidance when needed, and remaining committed to one’s goals can help navigate these challenges. Remember, every hurdle overcome adds to personal growth, and every experience, whether positive or negative, contributes to your evolving story.
Continuous Learning and AdaptationThe world will have changed during an incarceration period. Taking proactive steps to catch up — whether that means acquiring new skills, familiarizing oneself with technology, or simply understanding societal shifts — can make reintegration smoother and more fulfilling.
As individuals reintegrate into society, focusing on personal growth is paramount. Addressing mental health, embracing the journey with all its ups and downs, and continuously adapting can not only ensure successful reintegration but also enrich one’s life in countless ways. 
Conclusion:
The path to reintegration for formerly incarcerated individuals is undeniably challenging, encompassing various facets from housing to personal growth. By understanding the housing landscape, leveraging support services, formulating robust housing plans, and focusing on personal development, individuals can successfully reintegrate into society. It’s essential to remember that the journey doesn’t end with securing housing or employment — it’s about continuous growth, connection, and reclaiming one’s space in the community. By equipping oneself with the right tools, resources, and mindset, reintegration becomes not just feasible but a foundation for a renewed life journey.



“To lead a state-wide network of reentry programs that reduces recidivism, promotes public safety and provides supportive services to assist returning citizens lead successful lives.”

​HIGHER EDUCATION AFTER INCARCERATION

Case Worker Sam Coles with the TAP/VA CARES Program in Roanoke Virginia. Will be televised tomorrow, Sunday October 29th @ 9am on CW5. Led by COO Anthony West, VA Cares is a State Wide Program which assist Ex-Offenders in their Re-Entry into Society.
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Tuesday, July 2nd DMV Drive Connect will be set up at the City of Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority (2624 Salem Turnpike, Roanoke, VA 24012) to assist residents with the reinstatement of drivers licenses that have been suspended for failure to pay court fines and fees.

To raise awareness for this policy, there will be a press event on at 2:00PM. The event will include remarks from Governor Northam and other stakeholders.

If you know of any residents who have been affected or who require DMV assistance, please be sure to invite them as well. DMV Drive Connect will be on site from 9:00AM – 4:00PM.

Mr. Benjamin Lomax, a former CARES participant and member of the Virginia CARES Board, passed away from a heart attack early on the morning of June 18, 2020. Lomax, as he was known to members of the Board and staff, was on the CARES Board from January 2012 through January 2017. He was an avid supporter of sentencing and prison reform, as well as educational and social programming for returning citizens. His spirit and energy will be greatly missed.

​​© Virginia Community Action Reentry System. All rights reserved.
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