Community Outreach and Programs

Beginning at sentencing (pre-release) and extending beyond release, the Newport News Sheriff’s Office Re-entry Team assesses and links inmates with services and programs specific to their needs.

At least 90 days before release, inmates are asked if they’d like to participate in the post-release re-entry program. Participation is voluntary. Although the work begins while they are incarcerated, post-release ensures continuity of services in the community, which is important to a returning citizen's success.

Mission

The mission of the Newport News Re-entry Council is to coordinate resources through collaborative efforts of stakeholders, to enhance and create opportunities for offenders and ex-offenders and to advocate for systematic improvements and policy changes for re-entry.

Vision

The Council’s vision is to create a regional strategy that offers the opportunity for education, housing, employment, mental health services, and other social services to ensure the successful reintegration of individuals transitioning from the criminal justice system into the community.  This includes employment practices, public policies, and changing public opinion.

Operational Highlights

Without a “one size fits all” solution, the Newport News Re-Entry Council is instrumental in bringing interested parties to the table to move towards implementing a system of care focused on measurable outcomes. Many initiatives throughout the city enhance the reintegration of citizens who leave incarceration.  To improve public safety, target outcomes include reduced recidivism, reduced substance abuse, reduced homelessness, improved health and wellness, increased employment, increased family connectedness, and increased systems collaboration.

The Re-Entry Assessment Planning (RAP) Team membership continues to grow.   Representatives from mental health agencies, veterans affairs, public safety, child support enforcement, probation and parole, Redevelopment and Housing Authority, and Hampton/Newport News Criminal Justice Agency have been present from the beginning.  This collaboration has proven to be effective in providing services and identifying resources within the community.  The group continues to staff approximately six cases. The clients receiving service can be incarcerated or living in the community.  Some indicators of success are increased employment, employment retention and payment of fines, which led to one individual getting a restricted driver’s license.  Despite challenges that impede effective re-entry strategies, the RAP Team is evidence of what can be accomplished through collaborative community partnerships.