Franklin County Receives $1 Million Grant for Jail Program

Franklin County in Maine has been awarded a $1 million grant from the Bureau of Justice Assistance to address substance use recovery and reduce recidivism rates among incarcerated individuals. The funds will support the Jail Substance Use Recovery and Reentry Program, which includes hiring two correction officers and a behavioral health specialist. In Tennessee, Shelby County also received nearly $1 million from the U.S. Department of Justice to aid formerly incarcerated individuals in securing stable housing, which is critical in reducing the likelihood of reoffending. This grant will fund the Returning Neighbors Program, which will create a task force to tackle post-release housing barriers and establish partnerships for vocational training. Additionally, a $1.3 million grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development will enhance services for homeless youth, focusing on data collection and feedback from those who have experienced homelessness. These initiatives reflect a growing recognition of the importance of treatment and stable living conditions in preventing crime and supporting reintegration into society.