CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – Franklin County Commissioners have proclaimed April 6-10 to be Re-entry Week in Franklin County and are encouraging residents to support those who are returning to their communities after being released from jail.
Nearly 77,000 Pennsylvanians are estimated to be incarcerated, and one out of 35 individuals are under community supervision, making Pennsylvania one the highest states for supervision in the U.S. Locally, an average of 132 individuals are released from the Franklin County Jail each month. As these individuals re-enter society, they can face a complex transition and often encounter hurdles regarding employment, housing, transportation, substance abuse treatment and mental health care.
The Franklin Together Re-entry Coalition works to build a system of care that empowers and supports justice-involved individuals and their families in achieving success while lowering recidivism and improving public safety. The organization strives to reduce stigma, bias and cultural stereotypes while working to engage the community by offering peer groups, supportive services and other resources to assist those returning from incarceration.
“Re-entry Week highlights the programs and resources available to individuals returning from incarceration and encourages the community to support their efforts to rebuild their lives,” said Franklin County Commission Chairman Dean Horst. “By doing so, we not only demonstrate our compassion and humanity but also strengthen our neighborhoods by reducing recidivism and helping formerly incarcerated people become successful, contributing members of society.”
To mark Re-entry Week, the Franklin Together Re-entry Coalition has planned a number of events and activities. The group will collect donations of cleaning supplies, personal care items and gift cards for distribution from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. April 7 at South Central Community Action Partnership, 533 S. Main St., Chambersburg. The Re-entry Coalition also welcomes the public to its Gathering of Hope at noon April 10 at the Franklin Conference Center, 560 Black Ave., Chambersburg. This event celebrates the accomplishments of those who are successfully rebuilding their lives in local communities.
For a full list of events, activities and initiatives,readers may visit the Franklin Together Facebook page, www.facebook.com/FranklinTogether.
