Second Chance Act

The Second Chance Act includes funding for programs to provide assistance to the reentering population of adults and adolescents from state and local prison facilities. The reentering population has a much higher risk of homelessness than the general population, so it is critical for these individuals to obtain supportive services during their transition back into community life. Funding provides employment assistance, mental health therapy and substance abuse treatment, mentoring, and housing programs to reduce recidivism and help former prisoners gain stability. One of the main goals of the Second Chance Act is to increase housing opportunities for former prisoners, including assistance in obtaining either transitional housing or permanent supportive housing for those who cycle in and out of homelessness and prison.

View the program website

Eligible Applicants:

State and local governments, Indian Tribes, and nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply for competitive grant funding.

Eligible Beneficiaries:

Reentering prisoners (both adult and adolescent) from state and local correctional facilities are the primary beneficiaries of funded programs.

Funding Mechanism:

Grants are awarded competitively on an annual basis to eligible applicants.