Tony McCright on challenges and solutions for providing housing for formerly incarcerated people in small cities

Tony McCright (Leading with Conviction 2022) writes, “Finding stable housing is one of the most significant challenges for people reentering their communities after incarceration (often referred to as returning citizens). In small cities, the housing issue can present unique hurdles and opportunities. Even with regulations in place to prevent discriminatory practices, most states allow landlords to screen for criminal records of potential tenants, with specific rules varying by state. This contributes to a homeless rate for incarcerated people that is almost 10 times as high as the overall population. While these communities may lack the resources of larger municipalities, small municipalities regularly offer closer-knit social networks and opportunities for innovative, localized solutions to tackle these issues.

“The Challenges

• Limited Housing Stock
• Stigma and Discrimination
• Resource Scarcity
• Economic Constraints

“Innovative Solutions and Opportunities

• Community-Based Housing Programs
• Utilizing Vacant Properties
• Education and Advocacy
• Support Networks and Mentorship
• Policy Interventions

“Stable housing is critical for helping individuals rebuild their lives after incarceration and reducing recidivism. In small cities, the lack of housing solutions not only impacts the individuals returning but also the broader community. Without stable housing, returning citizens may struggle with reintegration, which can strain local resources and increase crime rates.

“On the other hand, small cities with proactive housing strategies can demonstrate that reintegration benefits everyone, fostering safer and more inclusive communities. By addressing housing barriers, these cities can serve as models for others, showing that small communities can have a big impact.”

Read the full article at NLC.org.

Removing discretionary bans on public housing for people with a conviction history is one of the recommendations in JLUSA’s 2025-2029 Roadmap.