- Executive Office of Public Safety and Security
- Massachusetts Department of Correction
Media Contact for EOPSS Joins Partners in Hosting Innovative Post-Incarceration Reentry Simulation in Worcester, Highlighting Efforts to Reduce Recidivism
Elaine Driscoll, Director of Communications and Policy
Worcester — The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS), in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC), ForHealth Consulting at UMass Chan Medical School, and Open Sky Community Services, hosted two innovative reentry simulations on October 23 and October 30 at the Community Compass Center in Worcester. These simulations provided legislators and key stakeholders with firsthand insight into the challenges faced by individuals reentering society after incarceration and highlighted the tools and resources needed to support successful reentry.
The two-hour interactive training sessions placed participants in the role of returning citizens, navigating the first 30 days of reentry. Participants faced obstacles, including securing housing and employment, accessing transportation, and managing social service needs. The program was designed to illustrate the potential for systemic barriers encountered by those returning to the community and how these barriers impact self-sufficiency and recidivism. This unique training exercise also stressed the importance of strong stakeholder partnerships and raised awareness about innovative programming to reduce recidivism and support second chances.
“These simulations is another component of our comprehensive strategy to reduce recidivism and promote long-term public safety. By stepping into the shoes of a formerly incarcerated individual navigating reentry, participants gained invaluable insight into reentry challenges and the need for enhanced support systems. The simulation reminds us of the essential work we must continue to do in bridging the gap between release and reintegration,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy. “The Healey-Driscoll Administration, together with our partners, remains deeply committed to leading efforts that ensure all returning citizens are equipped with the tools and resources needed to rebuild their lives, reduce recidivism, and promote safer communities.”
The trainings follow the recent 3rd Annual Emerging Adult Summit, hosted by the Healey-Driscoll Administration, which convened over 280 government, public safety, and community leaders on October 16-17, 2024, to strengthen support for justice-involved young adults. Together, these initiatives demonstrate the state's comprehensive approach to addressing reentry and recidivism, with a focus on evidence-based strategies that promote public safety and positive outcomes for individuals returning to the community.
“Emerging adults face unique challenges, and our role as leaders is to equip them with the tools to thrive, not just survive,” said Undersecretary of Criminal Justice Andrew Peck. “Our combined efforts to reduce recidivism and foster successful reentry, through initiatives like the reentry simulation and the recent Emerging Adult Summit, ensure that Massachusetts remains a leader in recidivism reduction, public safety, and compassionate support for those in need.”
“ForHealth Consulting is proud to be part of this initiative,” said ForHealth Consulting at UMass Chan Medical School Executive Vice Chancellor Lisa M. Colombo. “Our work with EOPSS, the DOC and community partners is rooted in a commitment to improving the health and well-being of individuals reentering society, which is essential for reducing recidivism.”
“Open Sky is dedicated to helping individuals overcome the barriers they face during reentry,” added Open Sky President and CEO Ken Bates. “This simulation shows the complexities of navigating life post-incarceration, and we hope it leads to stronger support systems for returning citizens.”
The simulations also align with recent findings from the Massachusetts DOC’s newly published Three-Year Recidivism Report for the 2019 Release Cohort, which showed a decrease in the state’s recidivism rate to 26 percent, down from 29 percent the previous year. The report tracked the re-incarceration rates of individuals released in 2019 and credited the state’s focus on evidence-based practices, educational programs, substance use disorder treatment, and comprehensive reentry services as key factors in the improvement.
“Reentry is about more than just leaving incarceration; it’s about navigating the path to self-sufficiency. This simulation, along with our ongoing reentry programming, highlights the real barriers faced by returning citizens and underscores our commitment to reducing recidivism,” said DOC Interim Commissioner Shawn Jenkins.
The Healey-Driscoll Administration continues to invest in reentry programs, including more than $7 million in reentry programming through the State Fiscal Year 2025 budget, and is committed to further reducing recidivism and strengthening communities across the state.
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