Reentry Help

Jobs & Housing

Rebuilding your life after incarceration is tough. The system is not designed to make it easy, and many doors will be closed before you even get the chance to knock. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. The key is knowing where to look, how to present yourself, and how to navigate the challenges ahead.

This page is here to help with finding a job, securing housing, and understanding your legal rights as you take those first steps forward.

Finding a Job After Prison

Employment is one of the biggest hurdles after incarceration, but it is possible to find work. Here’s how to increase your chances:

1. Where to Look for Jobs

Not all employers will consider hiring someone with a criminal record, but many do. Here are some felon-friendly industries:
✅ Construction & Skilled Trades – Many companies hire based on experience rather than background.
✅ Warehousing & Logistics – Positions in shipping, stocking, and forklift operation.
✅ Manufacturing – Factory work, machine operation, and assembly line jobs.
✅ Food Service – Restaurants and fast-food chains often hire without background checks.
✅ Truck Driving – A commercial driver’s license (CDL) can open doors. Some programs help with CDL training.
✅ Self-Employment & Gig Work – Many people build their own businesses, doing everything from landscaping to freelance work.

👉 Job Boards & Resources

2. Creating a Resume That Works

Gaps in work history can be a red flag for employers, so highlight your skills instead of focusing on dates.

  • List any work experience you had in prison (e.g., food service, maintenance, clerical work).
  • Focus on skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership.
  • Keep it honest but positive. Don’t dwell on the past—focus on what you can do now.

📌 Download a Resume Template for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals

3. What to Say in an Interview

Employers may ask about your background. Here’s how to handle it:

  • Be upfront, but don’t overshare. Example: “I made some mistakes in the past, but I’ve worked hard to move forward, and I’m ready to prove myself.”
  • Focus on your skills and work ethic. Let them see what you bring to the table.
  • Be prepared for rejection. It happens. Keep applying. Keep moving forward.

Finding Housing After Prison

Stable housing is key to rebuilding your life. Unfortunately, many landlords won’t rent to someone with a criminal record. But there are options.

1. Where to Look for Housing

  • Transitional Housing Programs – Many nonprofits provide housing for those leaving prison.
  • Reentry Housing Assistance Programs – Some cities offer rental assistance to returning citizens.
  • Faith-Based Organizations – Churches and community groups sometimes offer housing.
  • Shared Housing & Room Rentals – Renting a room is often easier than getting a full apartment lease.

👉 Housing Resources

2. How to Get a Landlord to Say Yes

Many landlords hesitate to rent to people with records, but these tips can help:

  • Offer a co-signer (family or friend with good credit).
  • Show proof of steady income (even if it’s a new job offer).
  • Provide strong personal references.
  • Be upfront, but focus on the future.

Final Thoughts

Reentry is not a straight path. Some days will be harder than others. There will be setbacks, and there will be people who refuse to give you a chance. But you are not defined by your past. You are defined by what you do next.

You will be rejected. By friends, by family, by employers. It’s not fair, and it’s not right, but it will happen.
Of those three, employers are the easiest to forgive. Rejection will come a thousand times, and each one will sting.
But do not give up hope. You don’t need a thousand people to believe in you.

You just need one.

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