WHY RE-ENTRY

The transition period of residence in the Pre-release program has proven cost-beneficial to the taxpayer in that the resident is not a total burden to the government. During residency the individual becomes a wage earner and taxpayer, hence defraying a portion of his/her support costs.

Without Pre-release, the offender is released with $100, the promise of a job if paroled, or perhaps no job if discharged. Under these circumstances, the offender goes directly from twenty-four hour per day confinement to once or twice monthly supervision by a parole officer. Often offenders are forced to return to the same dysfunctional environment/lifestyle in which they existed prior to incarceration.

The Pre-release inmate is released fully employed or attending school, has a minimum of $500 in savings, has received 50 or more hours of counseling, and for six months or more, has demonstrated the ability to live in the community without committing a crime.

The Center infuses well over $5 million annually into the local economy.

JOBS - The Great Falls Transition Center employs over 75 individuals within the community.

COST SAVINGS - Residents contribute towards their room and board thereby saving the taxpayer real dollars.

Residents pay for the costs of their own treatment as well as medical expenses.

Residents are able to pay towards fines, restitution, child support, student loans, as well as work off community service hours.

Residents become taxpayers rather than tax burdens.

Community corrections provides structure for the offender who will eventually return to live in the community with or without the opportunities of Pre-release.

The Concept of Pre-Release simply makes good sense!

Providing Re-Entry Services Since 1984