Reintegration Housing
As the largest provider of affordable housing in Seattle, the Seattle Housing Authority recognizes that stable housing is a critical need for people who are transitioning out of incarceration and yet is extremely challenging to obtain. The criminal justice system disproportionally incarcerates people of color, and the race and social justice inequities and barriers extend into the process of people trying to rebuild their lives after being released from prison.
Eligibility
- Currently incarcerated in a Washington State-operated prison and releasing to Seattle within six months.
- Currently at a Washington State Department of Corrections Reentry Center that serves Seattle and releasing within six months.
- Per federal regulation SHA may not accept for housing individuals convicted of production of methamphetamine on the premises of federally assisted housing and sex offenders subject to a lifetime registration requirement.
- Household income must not exceed 80 percent of Area Median Income.
- Individuals transitioning out of incarceration must be at risk of housing instability.
To address this issue SHA has established a Reintegration Housing pilot to help provide housing stability and support services for people transitioning out of incarceration, known as liberated individuals. To ensure an inclusive and successful pilot SHA is engaging with government agencies, local communities, advocacy organizations and people who were formerly or are currently incarcerated.
To help design the program SHA was in close partnership with the Black Prisoners' Caucus Community Group and employed strategic advisors. They have been integral in leading and shaping creation of the pilot and in outlining the foundational values for the program in an SHA Reintegration Housing Statement of approach.
During the pilot phase SHA will provide up to 24 months of housing rental subsidy to up to 60 households, coupled with peer mentorship, education, training, employment and connection to community resources.
SHA has issued a Request for Proposal for contracted Peer Navigators who will liaise with SHA, partners and clients. Advocates and organizations serving liberated individuals are invited to submit a Referral Partner interest form to SHA to indicate interest in becoming a partner organization.
For more information on SHA’s Reintegration Housing pilot contact:
reintegration@seattlehousing.org