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About Reentry Centers

Reentry Centers serve as a bridge between life in prison and life in the community. Incarcerated people at Reentry Centers focus on transition, to include finding and retaining employment, education, treatment, reconnecting with family members, and develop life skills. They learn and refine social and living skills to create a smoother transition from prison confinement. Reentry Centers provide people with focused opportunities for success.

Eligibility & Expectations

All incarcerated persons can be referred to reentry centers 30 months prior to their earned release date. An incarcerated person with six months left to serve on their sentence may be eligible to spend those last months in a reentry center, if specific criteria are met. For example:

  • Be assigned 'Minimum 1' custody level, and
  • There must be available bed space at a reentry facility.

An incarcerated person who is approved for Graduated Reentry may transfer to a Reentry Center with twelve months left to serve on their sentence and then transfer to electronic home detention with five months left to serve on their sentence.

Incarcerated people in Reentry Centers must follow all program rules. They must search for and/or retain employment or education. Frequent testing for substance abuse will be administered. Incarcerated persons may leave the facility for work, education, or other specific activities, such as appointments, treatment, shopping, or outings to visit family. Incarcerated people need to continue therapy, treatment, programming, and classes.

Individuals with Disabilities

The Reentry Centers meet applicable American with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and DOC policies regarding ADA. We will coordinate with the statewide ADA coordinator prior to the arrival of residents requiring ADA accommodations to ensure the facility has the necessary items. We will ensure the facility continues to meet the accommodated residents' needs during their incarceration.

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Value of Reentry Center Programs

Incarcerated people who complete the reentry program (pdf) are more likely to be successful in maintaining employment, stable housing, and in paying legal financial obligations. Additionally, recent research conducted by the Washington State Institute for Public Policy indicates that reentry programs have a positive cost/benefit impact; in fact, for every dollar spent, $3.82 is returned to the state.

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Resources

Publications

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