New Program Helps NJ Veterans Get Back On Their Feet After Prison Terms

The New Jersey Department of Corrections (NJDOC) recently launched a new program that helps incarcerated military veterans get back on their feet after spending time in prison.

According to the NJDOC, the initiative addresses the “unique challenges” that veterans who have entered the criminal justice system face, such as employment barriers and housing.

The program is designed to bridge the gap between release and reintegration by providing a comprehensive “wraparound” model. Key features of the program include:

• Immediate veteran status verification
• Direct enrollment in eligible state and federal benefits
• Coordination of medical, mental health and substance use treatments

The NJDOC is running the program in partnership with two organizations: the New Jersey Reentry Corporation, and Education and Health Centers of America.

“This initiative honors our commitment to those who have served by ensuring they receive the community services necessary to reenter civilian life,” acting NJDOC commissioner Victoria Kuhn said.

Other support for the new program came from:

Vincent Solomeno, acting commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs – “Our commitment to supporting Garden State veterans does not end at the courthouse steps. Working together, we can ensure that veterans reenter their communities with a clear path to accessing benefits, programs and services. Through deliberate and coordinated action, we are collectively working to reduce recidivism and support rehabilitation.”

James McGreevey, executive director and chair of the New Jersey Reentry Corporation – “This MOU ensures that veterans returning home, regardless of discharge status, are connected to the treatment, services and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives with dignity and stability.”

Steve Johnson, CEO of Education and Health Centers of America – “EHCA has proudly served more than 700 NJDOC incarcerated veterans over the past seven years and we look forward to continuing that work in all state institutions, halfway houses and in the community post-incarceration.”

• Related: NJ Gov Pardons 11 Convicted Military Service Members On Veterans Day
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• Related: Dozens Of 'Freedom Libraries' Built At 2 State Prisons In New Jersey

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