City of Dallas Ex-Offender Reentry Initiative

The Edward Byrne Memorial Discretionary Grants Program (Byrne Discretionary Program) helps local communities improve the capacity of local justice systems and provides for national support efforts. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 08 Congressional Budget. Funds should be used for purposes recommended by Congress.

The City of Dallas will support its reentry program, Project Reconnect, by providing a wide array of services to clients. The program assists ex-offenders in reconnecting to families, jobs, housing, and the community through the provision of basic social services. Clients must be 18 years or older, live in the City of Dallas, and on parole for a non-violent felony offense. Participant income must be low- to moderate. Also, program participants must need one or more of the following services: housing, employment, educational opportunities, or treatment services. This project will support staff positions and operating costs necessary to maintain and enhance a service-enriched, case management and reintegration program. The overall success of these services will be evaluated based upon quantitative goals outlined for each service.

NCA/NCF