Justice Reinvestment Newsletter - May Edition

Horizontal GOCPP Logo

Welcome to the May Edition of the Justice Reinvestment Newsletter

The Justice Reinvestment Team at the Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy (GOCPP) aims to increase information and resource-sharing, while creating and fostering a statewide-online community Newsletter.

  • Reentry Programming and Services
  • Behavioral Health Treatment and Services
  • Support for Victims and Restitution Enhancements
  • Training and Education
  • Safe Alternatives to Incarceration 
  • Pretrial Services and Programs

Please note that the Newsletter organizes all updates in chronological order under its subsections: Grants, Upcoming Events and Conferences, Meetings, Programs, and Other information.

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Grants

1. The FY24 Community Supervision Strategies 

The Bureau of Justice Assistance - Office of Justice Programs

Applications Due: Monday, May 6, 2024 by 8:59 PM (JustGrants Deadline)

BJA announcement

NASHP, in collaboration with The Health and Reentry Project (HARP), invites states to apply to the State Reentry Learning Collaborative.

Background: Reentry — the time when a person is transitioning to the community after a period of incarceration — is an extremely risky time for people’s health and well-being. States and the federal government have begun making historic changes to the Medicaid program to support the health and well-being of individuals during this transition.

This 18-month learning collaborative will be available to up to five state teams with pending or approved section 1115 demonstration waivers, who will receive targeted technical assistance from national experts and engage with a cohort of states leading the way in this groundbreaking work. 


2. FY2024 Office of Justice Programs Community Based Violence Intervention an                   Prevention Initiative (CVIPI)

The Bureau of Justice Assistance - Office of Justice Programs

Applications Due: May 30, 2024 by 8:59 PM (Grants.gov Deadline); June 10, 2024 by 8:59 PM (JustGrants Deadline)

bja solic

With this solicitation, the Office of Justice Programs (OJP) seeks to prevent and reduce violent crime in communities by supporting comprehensive, evidence-based community-based violence intervention and prevention programs. These programs include efforts to address gang and gun violence, based on partnerships among community residents, local government agencies, victim service providers, community-based organizations, law enforcement, hospitals, researchers, and other community stakeholders.

OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is administering the opportunity, working in partnership with OJP’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) and Office for Victims of Crime (OVC). This collaborative approach will help ensure jurisdictions have access to expertise to address community violence that involves youth, young adults, and adults, both as the individuals responsible for perpetrating this violence and as those who are victims of it. Awards made under this solicitation may be managed by BJA, OJJDP, or OVC, depending on the nature of the project.

Click here for more information.


3. Transitions in Care for Justice-Involved Populations

Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA)

Application Deadline: June 10, 2024 by 11:59 PM (Grants.gov Deadline); July 2, 2024 by 5:00 PM (HRSA Electronic Handbook)

During Second Chance Month, HRSA Takes Policy Action, Releases First-Ever Funding Opportunity for Health Centers to Support Transitions in Care for People Leaving Incarceration. HRSA announced the availability of $51 million for the first-ever funding opportunity for 51 HRSA-funded health centers to implement innovative approaches to support transitions in care for people leaving incarceration. 


4. NIJ FY24 Field-Initiated Action Research Partnerships

National Institute of Justice

Applications Due: June 17, 2024 by 11:59 PM (Grants.gov Deadline); July 1, 2024 by 8:59 PM (JustGrants Deadline)

With this solicitation, NIJ seeks research partnership proposals that meet the needs and missions of local justice and service provider entities — including police, corrections, courts, victim services, forensic science service providers, and community safety and adult and juvenile justice entities — and the communities they serve. These partnerships should apply a data-driven, problem-solving approach to challenges prioritized by agency partners; identify actionable and measurable responses; implement changes; and employ an action research evaluation approach to assessing the impact of interventions on desired outcomes that emphasizes scientific rigor and meaningful stakeholder engagement. These partnerships should also focus on developing the entity’s capacity to adopt data-driven, problem-solving approaches to sustain effective practices and ongoing improvement in relevant safety and justice outcomes.

Click here for more information.

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Upcoming Events & Conferences


Baltimoreans Empowered through Skills in Technology & Digital Literacy

(Thursday, May 2, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM)

We are thrilled to announce a collaborative effort involving the UMMC Career Academy, First Line Strategies Unlimited, Pass IT On, Inc., and the Enoch Pratt Free Library to provide digital skills training program at the Pennsylvania Avenue Branch Library.

This initiative is designed to empower the Penn-North Community and Baltimoreans by enhancing digital literacy skills, which are crucial in today’s technology-driven world. We are currently seeking community members eager to advance their digital capabilities.

Please note that space is limited, and slots are expected to fill quickly. We highly encourage you to share this opportunity with your clients, customers, and neighbors to ensure they don’t miss out. They can register immediately by visiting the following linkIntake Form Interest Link .

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Fundraiser Invitation: Maryland Reentry Resource Center (MDRRC)

(Thursday, May 2, 2024 at 6:30 PM)

Join the MDRRC for their annual fundraiser as they celebrate their five years serving Annapolis and surrounding areas. The event will feature success stories from program participants, entertainment, and a special auction. Ticket cost is $75. Please contact Vanessa Bright at (301)-802-7712 about sponsorship opportunities. Hors d'oeuvres, beer, and wine are included in the price of the ticket. The event is "business attire."

MDRRC MAY

Re-entry Pathways: Empowering Futures Resource Fair

(Wednesday, May 8, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM)

Project ENCORE run by The Enoch Pratt Free Library presents their Spring Resource Fair at the Central Branch Enoch Pratt Free Library (400 Cathedral Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201). This transformative event aims to bridge the gap between those seeking a fresh start and the valuable resources that can pave the way towards a brighter future. The fair is open to all, including individuals transitioning from incarceration, family members, friends, community advocates, and anyone eager to contribute to positive change in our community.

What to Expect:

  • Comprehensive Resource Hub
  • Employment Opportunities
  • Education and Skill Development
  • Legal Guidance
  • Supportive Services
  • Personal Development Workshops

Please email projectencore@prattlibrary.org with any questions. Click here for more information.


Virtual Family Empowerment Workshops - PREPARE (PREpare for PArole and REentry)

(Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM)

PREPARE would like to invite anyone interested to join us for our free, virtual Family Empowerment Workshops. Learn how to support incarcerated individuals in their parole preparation process. Please register and find out more here


Mettle-Works Health and Wellness Simulation and Trauma Informed Care Symposium

(Tuesday, May 14, 2024 from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM)

Register here.

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Maryland Learning Collaborative to Support MOUD Implementation for Justice-Involved Populations

(Thursday, May 16, 2024 from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM)

The Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy invites you to the "Maryland Learning Collaborative to Support MOUD Implementation for Justice-Involved Populations" at the Marriott Owings Mills Metro Centre. This event is open to anyone who would like to learn more about implementing or expanding MAT/MOUD programs in your local jails and county justice system, so please share this information widely with interested stakeholders in your community. We welcome everyone to attend. If you're interested in attending, please register here.

Announcing: Keynote speaker Dr. Yngvild Olsen, MD, MPH (she/her); Director Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT)

Agenda Topics to Include:

  • National Perspectives on Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)
  • Post-Legislative Session Updates
  • Effective Naloxone Protocols: How Much & When
  • Updates in Justice-Involved Case Law
  • Complex Clinical Cases for Managing Withdrawal
  • Stimulant Use Disorder
  • Addressing Diversion: After Action Treatment Plan
  • Pregnancy and MOUD

Return Strong Expungement and Hiring Event

(Wednesday, May 22, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM)

Join us either as a vendor or attendee at our upcoming Return Strong resource event. This event will provide a valuable opportunity for community members to connect with legal professionals from Maryland Legal Aid, Baltimore, hiring leaders from UMMC, and other service providers offering free resources and services.

md legal fair

We have a limited number of vendor slots available and they will be allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis. We are expecting over two hundred attendees, which offers a great chance for exposure and engagement with the community. 

Please register to secure your spot as a vendor here.


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Society for Prevention Research Annual Meeting: Advancing Partnerships and Collaborative Approached in Prevention Science

(Tuesday, May 28 - Friday, May 31, 2024)

The 2024 Annual Meeting of the Society for Prevention Research will convene in Washington, DC. This year's meeting is focused on advancing partnerships and collaborative approaches in prevention science. The meeting will bring together scientists, public policy leaders, and practitioners to exchange new concepts, methods, and results in service of the adoption and implementation of evidence-based preventive interventions across all areas of public health. Register here.


reup

ReUp: Reentry Redefined Conference

(Wednesday-Thursday, June 12-13, 2024)

Join us for an exciting in-person, 2 day conference at the Enoch Pratt Free Library. Our goal is to bridge the gap between agencies and returning citizens to create and highlight effective programming for formerly incarcerated individuals. The Conference is a must-attend gathering for anyone interested in reentry programs, and supporting individuals transitioning back into society. Discover innovative approaches, hear inspiring stories, and connect with professionals in the field. This conference offers a unique opportunity to learn from experts, network with like-minded individuals, and gain valuable insights. This conference is open for all agencies, companies and returning citizens who want to discover, discuss, and implement innovative, effective ways conducive for successful reintegration. This conference is CEU eligible.

To see the agenda and reserve a spot, please click here. Contact projectencore@prattlibrary.org with any questions.


F.A.C.E. Organization & Baltimore Toolbank - Resource & Community Event

(Saturday, June 22, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM)

Calling all Vendors! We invite you to table and participate at the "Calling in the Cavalry 2" Resources Event in Baltimore City.  There will be free food, music, and fun. All are welcome to attend! Please click here to register as a vendor.

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Meetings


1. Key Barriers and Facilitators for Medications to Treat Opioid Use Disorders in U.S. Jails      - JCOIN Speaker Series Webinar

(Thursday, May 2, 2024 from 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM)

JCOIN MAY

While previous studies examine the availability of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) in jails and the barriers to using these medications, much less is known about how to incorporate best practices for addressing opioid use disorder (OUD) in jails. Determining the best practices involves considering the necessary training, resources, and technical assistance for providing MOUD. In response to this urgent need, researchers with JCOIN’s Clinical Research Center at Chestnut Health Systems conducted a national study to understand the OUD best practices in jails located in counties heavily impacted by opioid overdose in the U.S. and their resource and training needs. 

This webinar will present findings from the national study, including identifying 10 OUD best practices that were consistently referenced in treatment and practice guidelines recommended by various federal agencies and national organizations, and were grounded in the scientific literature. Presenters will also share insights from study sites on critical barriers that impede the implementation and expansion of MOUD in the criminal legal system and facilitators to support and provide evidence-based services to individuals with OUD who come in contact with the legal system. 

Speakers:

  • Christine Grella, Ph.D., Senior Researcher, Lighthouse Institute, Chestnut Health Systems
  • Tisha Wiley, Ph.D., Branch Chief, Associate Director for Justice Systems, National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) 

Click here to register and for more information.


2. State Reentry Learning and Action Network: Implementing Medicaid Changes to                   Support Reentry (*ONLY FOR HEALTH AND CORRECTIONS STATE OFFICIALS*)

(Wednesday, May 15, 2024 from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM)

The National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP) and the Health and Reentry Project (HARP) are hosting State Reentry Learning and Action Network meetings for health and corrections state officials. The next session, on May 15, 2024 at 3:30 PM, focuses on the specifics of implementing Medicaid changes to support reentry. This will include an overview of new and historic changes to the Medicaid program including the youth provisions of the 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA), new requirements and opportunities from the 2024 CAA, and Medicaid section 1115 demonstration waivers, as well as other actions states can take through the Medicaid program.

Discussion will highlight partnership opportunities across the corrections and health sectors for planning, policy making, and implementation applicable to all states. These sessions include a combination of presentation and discussion, so we encourage you and your partners at the state level to join and participate in these discussions. It should be a great opportunity to ask questions, share your challenges, and walk away with some concrete information. 

Click here to register. 

Likewise, if you'd like to take part in cross-state dialogue regarding the support of individuals reentering the community from incarceration, and share resources, relevant updates, and news, please consider joining the state-only group listserv at reentry@nashp.org.

 

3. The Maryland Statewide Alliance for Returning Citizens (MSARC)

(Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at 9:30 AM; Recurring, every fourth Tuesday of the month via zoom)

MSARC comprises reentry service providers, returning citizens, advocates, government, corrections, and law enforcement staff working in reentry, and others who support increasing reentry resources. Meetings primarily consist of information sharing, guest speakers, and announcements about upcoming events of interest, aiming to break down silos. The next meeting will take place on May 28th, 2024 at 9:30 AM. The meetings are open to all with an interest in reentry. Please email Dawna Cobb, MSARC Co-Chair, at marylandreentry@outlook.com to be added to the MSARC email list and to receive the Zoom link for meetings.


Programming


Flikshop

flikshop1

Flikshop aims to ease the process of sending postcards to incarcerated individuals. Founded by Marcus Bullock, a formerly incarcerated individual himself, the company fights recidivism by keeping families connected, so that individuals foster successful reentry, once released. We focus on families and their loved ones affected by incarceration, and assist them with technology that helps to leverage their relationships. Likewise, Flikshop has grown to connect businesses that work to build social impact strategies and community engagement teams that work to combat mass incarceration.

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Mindset Care

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Mindset Care specializes in assisting individuals and caregivers with SSI and SSDI applications. Our streamlined online process reduces the application time from 4-6 weeks to just 1 hour. We charge a one-time fee, equivalent to 25% of the claimant's back pay, mandated by the SSA office. There are no recurring fees or monthly charges for claimants. Our services include full legal representation, dedicated case managers, and access to a licensed psychologist.
We manage the entire application process from initial filing to appeals, ensuring a seamless experience for claimants. Our partnership with TruConnect also offers qualified claimants a federally subsidized cell phone.
Noteworthy points about Mindset Care:
  • No charge to our partners or your organization
  • No fee if the claimant's application is not accepted
  • Management of all necessary medical records and correspondence
  • Focus on securing stable income, benefits, and housing opportunities for claimants
Contact Kian Ronnasi at kronnasi@mindset.care with any questions.

project ENCORE

Project ENCORE 

Project ENCORE (P-ENCORE) is the Pratt Library's new restorative justice program which aims to dismantle institutional barriers and social reintegration challenges that lead to recidivism. There are three parts to P-ENCORE: Workforce Development, Digital Equity, and the Reconnection Center. Our mission is to empower formerly incarcerated individuals by equipping them with the essential tools to thrive as productive members of society. We adopt a comprehensive approach by seamlessly connecting participants with Pratt's existing wrap-around services, including housing, substance abuse rehabilitation, social work, and more, addressing their mental, emotional, financial, and physical well-being. See here for more information on their extensive programming. Our Multi-Tiered approach is designed to: 

  • Foster generational wealth and leave a lasting legacy.
  • Provide a stable source of income for participants.
  • Offer support for housing and transportation needs.
  • Create safe, inclusive spaces for open dialogue about barriers and mental health challenges.
  • Enhance self-esteem and boost participants' sense of pride and self-worth.

If you're interested in volunteering, partnering, or becoming a participant in any of our initiatives, please reach out to swalker@prattlibrary.org or kbailey@prattlibrary.org.


Create Your Life Plan Now: Your Blueprint to Reentry 

Description: "I created this workbook because I believe that reentry should begin the day after a person enter the correctional facility to serve his or her sentence. Instead, too often the process does not begin until a few months before release. This workbook focuses on soft skills, which we can take wherever we go in life, no matter what we do. Soft skills characterize how a person interacts in relationships with others, including communication, time management, problem-solving, and conflict resolution." Click here for more information.

workbook

Baltimore Veteran Reentry Resources

The Baltimore Station

Know a veteran who is soon to be released with a substance use disorder? The Baltimore Station provides wraparound support programs for homeless veterans that has a workforce program, and  a free residential program. Click here for more information, and contact James Hardy at outreach@baltimorestation.org with any questions.


Housing in Prince George's County

DXT Therapeutic Foundation

Offers shared transitional wrap around housing in Prince George's County. Call (240)-838-3707 or Michelle Hare at (240)-676-2895 for assistance.

dxt

Housing in Baltimore City

Sheppard Pratt is offering a new residential treatment program for clients with co-occuring disorders. They offer rent support and other resources for apartments in Baltimore City. For more information, contact Ziva Ritchie at (410)-382-5426.


Additional Housing Options

St. Ambrose

Four new housing spots/beds are available in partnership with Jacob's Well for justice-involved youth ages 18-24. Please contact Shalawn James at St. Ambrose for more information at shalawnj@stambros.org.


Other News

1. The Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy's (GOCPP) Second Reentry Simulation

Last month, the GOCCP hosted their second Reentry Simulation. Click here to view the press release.

reentry sim

2. New Report Features 10 Best Practices for Jails and Prisons on Responding to Opioid Use Disorder

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Opioid Use Disorder Best Practices for Corrections highlights 10 essential strategies that jails and prisons can use to address the treatment needs of individuals with opioid use disorders (OUD) and those involved with the criminal legal system. It includes actionable resources for policymakers, corrections officials, and key stakeholders to improve OUD practices and policies in correctional settings. 

The science and evidence is based on a study published in Health & Justice by Chestnut Health Systems, where the researchers identified best practices that are consistent with treatment and practice guidelines. These best practices are used by federal agencies and national organizations and supported by scientific literature. The research team also conducted a comprehensive review of the availability of these practices in the study sites that were located in counties severely affected by the opioid epidemic.

The 10 recommended strategies featured include: 

  • Screening for opioid use disorder
  • Clinical assessment by qualified treatment providers
  • Medically managed withdrawal
  • Medications for opioid use administration
  • Services for pregnant women
  • Counseling and wrap-around services
  • Collaborative relations with community providers of opioid use disorder treatment
  • Assistance with applications for state Medicaid/insurance coverage
  • Reentry services
  • Overdose prevention

Click here to read the report.

This report was prepared by the Addiction Policy Forum (APF) in conjunction with Chestnut Health Systems and the Justice Community Opioid Innovation Network (JCOIN) Coordination and Translation Center, an initiative funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) through the NIH HEAL Initiative. The research reported in the publication was supported by NIDA of the NIH under award number UG1DA050065. The contents of this publication are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of NIDA, the NIH HEAL Initiative, or the participating site.

June Submissions?

To be included in May's Newsletter, please make your submission by COB Tuesday, May 28th 2024. Visit the Submission Page here for more information and to make your May Submission.