SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The Sacramento County Department of Health Services (DHS) has received an $8 million grant from the California Board of State and Community Corrections, funded through Proposition 47, to launch a new program focused on helping formerly incarcer­ated individuals reintegrate into society. The Reentry Opportunities and Access to Resources (ROAR) program will address core challenges like recidivism, homeless­ness and unemployment for individuals reentering the community after incarcer­ation. The grant, which was awarded in October 2024 will fund efforts through June 1, 2028.

What is the Proposed ROAR Program?

ROAR aims to reduce recidivism rates by 35% by connecting individuals with community-based resources and support before they are released. The program plans to expand eligibility for reentry services and establish partnerships with correctional facilities to provide “warm handoffs” for those reentering the com­munity. By connecting individuals with community providers who can help them find housing, job training or men­tal health services, DHS hopes to offer a fresh start for those reintegrating into society.

Homelessness is a significant barrier for individuals leaving incarceration, and ROAR is set to address this challenge with re-housing funds and access to shel­ter beds. The program’s objective is to reduce homelessness among its partici­pants by 60% and lower unemployment by 50%, with job training and work­force development as core components of the strategy. Data from the Homeless Management Information System and reports from community-based organiza­tions will be used to track these efforts.

Substance use and mental health issues are common among justice-involved indi­viduals, with nearly 25% of Sacramento’s incarcerated population affected by sub­stance use disorders alone. ROAR will work to increase participation in mental health and substance use treatment pro­grams by 50%, helping participants build a foundation for stability. By recruiting more service providers and strengthening referral networks, ROAR seeks to offer targeted, timely support to those in need.

With funding secured, Sacramento County will begin developing an imple­mentation plan and budget for ROAR and

is aiming to create lasting change and reduce the barriers faced by formerly incarcerated individuals in Sacramento.

For more information on the ROAR program contact Sacramento County Public Information Officer Elizabeth Zelidon via email at, zelidone@sac­county.gov.