Reentry - The Role of Families in the Reentry Process

More than 10,000 prisoners parole or discharge from Michigan prisons each year. Many of those will turn to their families for support as they make their transition back into society. Those family members will provide critical and emotional support that includes:

• Shelter
• Food
• Clothing
• Help with job contacts
• Guidance that promotes staying sober and avoiding criminal behavior

Families are typically more personally invested in and affected by positive outcomes for men and women returning home from prison than criminal justice and human service agencies. Research strongly suggests that family support can help make or break a successful transition from prison to the community.