You've just been released from prison after serving your time. Now, you've got to get back on your feet quickly. There's a ton to learn, and every second that goes by costs you opportunities to succeed in life. In fact, for many returning citizens, simply getting started is the hardest part. What do you do after a long stint behind bars when you may have lost your savings, job, friends, and even the family you left behind? How can you keep yourself on track when you haven't been in the world for years and don't know what to do next?
This web page aims to bring a little light into the dark, harsh world of reentry.
Most people released from prison in Arizona have completed about 85% of their sentence, but the other 15% must be completed on parole or probation. You must meet with your parole officer within 24 hours of your release. During that meeting, you will learn the rules governing your parole. While the rules may vary a bit from person to person, in general, you will not be permitted to contact any other person on parole, you cannot use alcohol or drugs that were not prescribed, you will need to find housing and a job, and you will need to complete court-ordered therapy. You will be told any other rules and make an appointment for your next meeting.
Finding transportation is challenging after returning to the community. You must find ways to get around so you can get to meetings, work, or pick up groceries.
In the past, walking or public transportation was the only way you could get around. Those options may still work well in cities. Unfortunately, walking and public transport in a rural area like Cochise County are not too realistic. However, other options may help you get where you need to be. For example, some services can help you get to job interviews or medical appointments. Some of the larger towns in Cochise County may also have ride-share services like Uber or Lyft, but they are often expensive and unreliable. The Transportation Page on this website contains more information about available options.
Here are some helpful links.
Of course, you must get food to eat and warm clothing to wear, but that can be hard to do (like most tasks after you return). If you don't have money for food, you should visit the local Department of Economic Security office. They will sign you up for Arizona's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, called "SNAP." You can also find information about SNAP at the Department of Economic Security website. Another potential source of help for SNAP is the Cochise County Health and Social Services Department or call (520) 432-9400. DES can also help you find prescription drugs, at least for a few months.
Other non-governmental organizations may also be able to help. There are Salvation Army, the Good Will, and the United Way groups in many Cochise County communities. They can help ex-offenders with food and clothing. Finally, there are many second-hand clothing stores in most Cochise County communities. These locations will have inexpensive clothes, and many will even give away a few clothing items to people in need.
Here are some helpful links.
You will face significant housing issues when you return. If you are on parole, your parole officer may already have you in a halfway house or another shelter. Those places have strict rules, and you must be careful to understand and obey them. Unfortunately, most landlords will not rent to ex-offenders, so having a home is essential, even if it is not the best.
Your parole officer may be able to help you find an agency that assists returning citizens in finding a place to live. You may be able to also find information on an affordable apartment at the housing office at Cochise Community College. Be sure to check the local newspapers for apartment listings. You may be able to find a homeless shelter that would accept you, at least temporarily. Finally, you can contact community centers or shelters in the area to see if they have listings. Most housing locations have a waiting list, so you probably won't be able to move into a new place until later. You shouldn't get discouraged if you don't find housing right away. You must be patient and not give up.
Here are some helpful links.
You will be required to find a job as part of your parole, but that will be very difficult. Maybe you'll find a job immediately; however, you will probably have to wait for a good job. So, you may need to take whatever job you can find for a little while, then look for something better. You may also consider taking classes to improve your skills. There are many inexpensive courses available, and some are even free. Check at Cochise College, Goodwill Industries, and the Center for Lifelong Learning to see if they have classes you can take.
Your primary source of information about jobs and training is the Arizona@Work office. This is the state's official employment bureau, and they have offices in several Cochise County towns. You will want to check with Arizona@Work as you look for work.
Here are some helpful links.
You will have many legal needs. Sometimes, your parole officer can help you find a legal aid office to help with the paperwork you need to file. Certain convictions in Arizona can be expunged, and other convictions can be sealed so they cannot be used against you. However, these actions require a lawyer to file a petition to the court.
Restoration of civil rights is another legal matter to consider. In Arizona, a felony conviction means you lose the right to vote, serve as a juror, hold public office, own a firearm, or obtain a license in certain occupations. After your first conviction, if you have completed your sentence and paid all fines and restitution, your rights will be automatically restored (except owning a firearm). The Arizona Department of Corrections should issue an "absolute discharge" once you finish your sentence. However, you may need a lawyer to help if you do not receive that document. If you have been convicted of two or more felonies, you must petition the court to restore your civil rights, and, again, a lawyer will need to help. Be aware that if you vote before your civil rights are restored, you will be convicted of a new felony, so be careful.
The other legal challenge is obtaining an identification card, which Arizona's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues. You will need a birth certificate, a Social Security Card, and two documents showing your name and current address, like bank statements or utility bills. It can take several months to gather these documents, especially a birth certificate, so start this process as soon as possible.
Here are some helpful links.
You may face significant health issues, including mental illness and substance abuse. It can be challenging to find support for these types of problems. Even worse, you may have been incarcerated for drug or alcohol-related crimes, and you may still need treatment. You can receive help and support through community programs and social services. However, these programs are usually packed and challenging to get into. If you were successful in your visit to the Department of Economic Security, you should have a Medicaid card that will help you pay for treatments or medication.
Several organizations help returning citizens with substance abuse or other wellness problems in Cochise County. For example, SEAHBUS (520.458.3932) provides behavioral services, and they may be able to help with substance abuse or at least know where you can get help.
Here are some helpful links.
In conclusion, there are seven critical steps to ensure successful reentry: report to parole, find transportation, obtain food and clothing, locate housing, become employed, contact legal services, and work on your health. Additionally, you must establish a support network that includes family members, friends, faith community members, and mentors. You must build self-esteem and resolve negative thinking patterns. You must be patient, disciplined, and ready to accept constructive criticism. You must prepare for a new beginning by committing to making positive choices and living a structured lifestyle.
It's hard to get back into life after serving time in prison. And the stigma of being a convicted felon is only compounded after release. Taking the first steps and asking for help when needed is essential. Now is the time to get busy!