Help On The Way For Chester County Inmates Returning Society

CHESTER COUNTY, PA —Plans are in the works to provide services to help Chester County inmates who have completed their sentences become productive members of society.

The Chester County Criminal Justice Advisory Board met Thursday to begin plans for the reentry program.

The partners included county and court departments, human services, treatment programs, law enforcement, and faith-bath groups.

“Helping individuals find housing, employment, transportation, education, and other supports not only reduces crime and improves public safety, but it also gives them what they need to become healthy, contributing members of society,” Chester County Commissioners Marian Moskowitz, Josh Maxwell, and Michelle Kichline said in a prepared statement.

Chester County Chief Probation Officer Chris Pawlowski said it takes time, engagement, and collaboration to increase the likelihood of successful reintegration.

“Those are investments we must make to ensure formerly incarcerated individuals become productive members of our communities, reduce recidivism, and keep Chester County safe,” he said.

The Reentry Coalition will provide a continuum of services ranging from mentoring to community, mental health, and substance use disorder support.

The services will begin when an offender is sentenced and continue through incarceration and release to the community.