Why are Former Offenders Homeless?

Every month, about 50 men and women come back to Mercer County, having been incarcerated in state prison. Many of them immediately become homeless, because various governmental rules prevent them from accessing necessary services and housing opportunities. There are also barriers in place to their employment. Without permanent housing and steady jobs, they are far more likely to reoffend and be sent back to prison at a considerable cost to all of us. We can't expect these folks to become productive citizens, if we effectively tie their hands behind their backs.

Over the next several weeks, due to the leadership of Assemblywoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, a package of bills is being considered by the New Jersey Assembly that could really give these folks a second chance. The bills provide a once-in-a-generation opportunity to end homelessness for this group of men and women, who constitute one-third of our local homeless population.

These bills will not pass without our letting legislators know how important this is to us. We will be putting action items on our website relative to each of these Assembly bills. Each one will also have a Senate version.

• A4197 - Strengthening Women and Families Act
• A4198 - Post-Release Employment Act
• A4199 - Administration of Correctional Facilities Act
• A4201 - reduction of Recidivism Act
• A4202 Education and Rehabilitation Act
• A4203 - Criminal Penalties Act

The first hearing is this Monday. You can take action right now, by sending an email to the Senate Judiciary committee. It will take about one minute of your time.