Finding viable housing placements for people re-entering the community from prison or jail is a daunting task, especially considering the vastness of housing possibilities and information required to make effective referrals and placements. Yet, some authorities have embarked on creative initiatives designed to increase available options. These include organizing special funding agreements to increase the provision of supportive housing, pioneering new specialized re-entry housing models, encouraging nonprofit organizations to develop housing for returning individuals, negotiating agreements with local and regional funding agencies to allow returning individuals to be considered homeless under certain circumstances, and coordinating with local PHAs to determine re-entering individuals' eligibility for public or Section 8 housing. (See Housing Options for People Released from Correctional Facilities, above, for key aspects of several types of housing available for individuals returning to the community.) Transition planners must be trained to develop a nuanced understanding of legal restrictions and other barriers to placing people with criminal records within the various housing options. They should also know, and be able to explain to people in prison or jail, the risks, restrictions, and benefits inherent in the particular housing placements discussed in this policy statement. (See Policy Statement 30, Housing Systems, for more on specific obstacles and challenges that exist in the housing system generally.)

Community-based service providers, which could include nonprofits, faith-based organizations, housing authorities, housing assistance providers, community development corporations, and other providers with expertise in siting and developing housing and supportive services, can be an extraordinary resource for transitional planners. When corrections staff collaborate with housing experts from the community, it improves the ability of each to understand the housing options available in the community, develop feasible housing plans for inmates, and respond to individual needs immediately upon release.

Community-based organizations (such as intermediaries or low-income housing advocacy organizations), national housing and community development trade organizations, can also assist transition planners in preparing a housing directory. A housing resource guide or other compilation of information about housing options for which released individuals may be eligible can facilitate the collection and processing of information for assisting inmates with securing post-release housing. At a minimum, such directories should include the following information about each different housing option: type/category, description, location, contact information, eligibility requirements, application procedures, charge/conviction or other exclusions, and cost/rent.

Example: Housing Handbooks, AIDS Housing Corporation (MA)

AIDS Housing Corporation has developed a guide for housing search advocates that provides education and best practices around performing housing searches, filling out applications, communicating with landlords, and obtaining housing advocacy. This guide, "In the Center of the Ring," is useful as a training resource for transition planners and any service providers who assist others with seeking and obtaining housing.