Problem

Problematic Behavior Or Activity

Polk County lacks sufficient transitional housing for male and female offenders, particularly sex offenders, after they leave jail or prison.

Impact On The Community

The shortage of housing for these populations resulted in an increase of homeless people in the community, included sex offenders without a reported address.

Solution

Program Description

Polk County Community Corrections offers 30-day transitional housing in three locations. The department office has three beds for men, mainly sex offenders. Community Corrections also has two rooms with single beds at a local motel that can house male or female offenders. The third location is a program called River of Life, which has three beds for men who are not sex offenders.

Funding

This program is funded through the Justice Reinvestment Grant Program.

Outcome

Program Impact

The department has increased the number of transitional housing beds from three to eight. Through August 2016, the program has housed more than 60 men within Community Corrections Transitional Housing.

Critical Success Factors

The program’s key success is the reduced local arrest rate.

Lessons Learned

• It is important to have limited-duration housing.
• Public transportation needs to be available.
• The individuals the program serves are in need of employment.