Justice System Involvement, Employment, and Homelessness in Rural Areas

Individuals who have been involved with the criminal justice system face many re-entry obstacles in their communities, including homelessness and unemployment, which increase their likelihood of recidivism. These challenges are often multiplied for justice-involved individuals in rural communities where access to employment opportunities and suitable housing are limited. This article provides an overview of specific challenges to obtaining and maintaining suitable housing and employment for those with previous involvement in the criminal justice system in the United States. Recommendations for using an evidence-based multi-agency collaborative approach to service provision to reduce recidivism and improve housing stability among this population are discussed and encouraged.