Keystone Today

Gov. Tom Wolf recently announced that $2 million in grant money will be going to 21 recipients through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) focused on reducing recidivism for women.

“By aiming resources at addressing the dynamic risk factors associated with reincarceration, this initiative will help begin the healing process,” PCCD Executive Director Mike Pennington said.  “Reducing recidivism can help stabilize not only the women directly impacted, but their families as well.  This could result in less crime and victimization overall, which leads to safer communities.”

According to a December 14 release by the governor’s office, these are Women’s Reentry Services Initiative Grants that have been praised by First Lady Frances Wolf. The funds will support nonprofits for holistic reentry support services for Pennsylvania women returning to society after being incarcerated.

“Women face countless challenges when they return to their communities after incarceration, and the support, guidance and hope that community organizations offer are immensely important,” First Lady Wolf said. “By investing in these organizations, we are investing in the well-being of women, their families and Pennsylvania as a whole.”

Program activities and expenses involved in the program include: supportive housing; workforce development services and employment assistance; job readiness support services; access to childcare; and transportation assistance. 

The program also works to provide access to effective treatment for health care, substance use disorder, mental health and trauma. At times, the women may need help gaining access to identification documents essential to obtaining employment, housing and other government assistance such as driver’s licenses, birth certificates and Social Security cards. The program steps in to alleviate that challenge as well. 

Finally, rounding out the program are peer supports and mentoring as well as family reunification services.

Gov. Wolf said the funds will not only help the state save money through reducing recidivism, but also assist women and their families as they work to get back into a way of life in society. He praised his wife for working to secure the funds as the Wolf Administration comes to a close.

“Through her advocacy, she’s opened the eyes of many to the challenges women reentrants face and the importance of community support,” Gov. Wolf said.