The proposed project addresses the critical need for housing individuals identifying as female who are homeless and under community corrections supervision

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), under the Second Chance Act Reentry Initiative (CFDA 16.812), awarded a $1,000,000 Project Grant to the County of Scott, Minnesota. The grant funding will enable the county to contract a qualified vendor to deliver gender and culturally specific programming tailored to meet the needs of homeless individuals identifying as female who are under community corrections supervision. The programming will feature cognitive behavioral therapy, mutual or peer support, and all-female group sessions, which are recommended for this population to promote successful reintegration and desistance from criminal behavior. The county has purchased a home in a convenient location to serve as the site for this initiative, which aims to address the critical need for housing and support services for this target population.

The project aims to select a qualified vendor through a request for proposal process to deliver gender and culturally specific programming tailored to meet the specific needs of homeless individuals identifying as female in the justice system. To support this work, a home was purchased by the county in a neighborhood conveniently located near transportation, services, and employment opportunities. BJA funding will enable the county to contract a vendor to provide programming, service brokering, and case management, ensuring effective support for the residents. The gender and culturally specific programming will feature cognitive behavioral therapy, mutual or peer support, and all-female group sessions, recommended for individuals identifying as female within the justice system. These components are essential for addressing the unique needs of this population and promoting successful reintegration and desistance from criminal behavior.