Reentry Resources in New York (2025 Directory)
Jump to: Overview • Housing • Jobs • Legal Help • Credit & Money
Overview
New York blends state-led reentry and supervision through DOCCS with a strong network of nonprofit providers, especially in NYC and major upstate cities. Housing and employment resources are concentrated around urban hubs, where large organizations support transitional housing, job placement, and case management. Smaller counties often rely on community agencies and reentry coalitions.
Legal relief expanded under New York’s Clean Slate law, with additional record-sealing options available through the courts. Expect eligibility screening and documentation requirements for housing programs and expungement/record-sealing support. Returning citizens should connect early with local reentry providers and workforce partners to secure housing and employment assistance.
Housing Assistance
Regional housing note: New York skews toward publicly supported and nonprofit reentry housing with case management. Verify sobriety rules, supervision status, and any resident cost-share before applying.
| Program / Organization | Description | Website |
|---|---|---|
| NYS DOCCS – Reentry / Community Supervision | State reentry & community supervision hub; links to transitional services and assistance on documents, relief certificates, etc. | Visit |
| The Fortune Society (NYC) | Reentry housing (emergency, transitional, permanent) and wraparound services; large NYC provider. | Visit |
| Osborne Association | Reentry supports with housing navigation and stabilization; jail/prison transition and community programs. | Visit |
| The Doe Fund – Ready, Willing & Able | Paid transitional work plus transitional housing and supportive services; NYC sites. | Visit |
Job & Employer Programs
| Program / Organization | Description | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) – NYC | Largest CEO site; immediate paid transitional work, coaching, and placement for returning citizens. | Visit |
| STRIVE New York | Tuition-free job readiness & sector training; dedicated “Fresh Start” pathway for returning citizens. | Visit |
| Wildcat Service Corporation (Fedcap Group) | Justice-impacted workforce programs and placements; NYC partnerships and court-linked initiatives. | Visit |
Legal Help & Record Clearing
| Organization | Services | Website |
|---|---|---|
| NY Courts – Clean Slate Act | Official info: automatic sealing rollout (took effect Nov 16, 2024; up to 3 years to implement fully), what employers see, what’s eligible. | Visit |
| Legal Aid Society – Criminal Records & Reentry Practice (NYC) | Provides free legal help for sealing, certificates of relief, and rights restoration. Serves New York City residents with past convictions. | Visit |
| Community Service Society – Next Door Project | Trains volunteers and lawyers to help people obtain RAP sheets, apply for certificates, and clear eligible records; statewide partners. | Visit |
Tip: For legal listings, verify eligibility, conviction type, and any fees — Clean Slate automatic sealing timelines and county practices vary.
Credit & Financial Support
| Program | Focus | Website |
|---|---|---|
| NYC Financial Empowerment Centers (DCWP) | Free 1:1 financial counseling for credit building, budgeting, debt reduction, and safe banking access; schedule online or by phone. | Visit |
| Bank On – Certified Accounts | National directory of safe, low-fee checking accounts; many participating banks and credit unions in New York City and statewide. | Visit |
| Neighborhood Trust Financial Partners | NYC nonprofit offering financial coaching and credit-building support through its TrustPlus program and community partner sites. | Visit |
Note: A dedicated statewide credit-repair program exclusively for individuals with criminal records was not located. The organizations above are the best available substitute options for financial education and rebuilding credit after incarceration.