SMOC Re-entry Housing Program

We have created a database of housing options for releasing inmates at risk for homelessness. Each prison uses a certified Housing Search Specialist to access residential programs, shelters, and sober houses as options to consider while working on reentry plans. Established in 2003, the RHP consists of five mobile housing search specialists who serve all 17 Department of Correction institutions throughout the Commonwealth. These individuals serve inmates who are at risk of homelessness and are soon to be released back into the community. Staff do "in-reach" to the prison population from referrals provided by DOC re-entry counselors up to six months prior to release. RHP staff will identify the housing needs of a client and either work with them if they have chosen to stay within the region of their incarceration or work with the housing specialist in that region of relocation. The RHP staff person in the housing region will then secure housing prior to the inmate?s release and meet the client on the day of their release to assist with the transition. RHP staff also work with re-entry DOC staff to secure other non-housing services such as mental health, substance abuse, education and employment services.