WORKING WITH
JUSTICE INVOLVED INDIVIDUALS Goodwill Industries of Middle Tennessee, Inc. giveit2goodwill.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction
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Chapter 1: Defining the Target Audience
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Chapter 2: Appropriate Language Dos and Don’ts
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Chapter 3: How to Conduct an Intake
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Chapter 4: Steps to Eliminate Barriers Client Faces
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Chapter 5: Legal Terminology and Potential Resources
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Chapter 6: Types of Financial Benefits – Am I Eligible?
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Chapter 7: Social Media Resources for Clients
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Appendix
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Introduction to Working with Justice Involved Approximately 77 million Americans, or 1 in 3 adults, have a criminal record. Having a criminal record can make it difficult, or even impossible, for an individual to work in a given field, especially one that requires an occupational license and other challenges, such as lower levels of education and job skills. Many employers request a criminal check prior to hiring applicants. If you have a conviction, no matter how old, it is listed on your criminal record. Employers may opt not to hire you if you have been convicted, or worse, terminate you after learning you have a conviction even if you are performing satisfactorily. What can we do to improve the chance of our clients getting hired? Part of our Career Coaches responsibility is to help improve their chance of becoming more employable and maintain work. Be sure to have the client check their criminal record and know what is on their record. If there are crimes that are misdemeanors or are old, they may be able to utilize the expungement process. The Career Coach may need to assist the client to prepare for this process. Help them think and cultivate ways to talk about how they have grown and changed since the offense was committed. Maybe they learned a life lesson as a result. Limit those responses to things interviewers may ask. Have them get the proper training, gather references, make use of connections with your community partners to help with barriers and hiring. Have a list of employers ready to hire those with criminal backgrounds. Work one on one with your client to help them overcome hurdles, rebuild, and navigate the job market. We can help them begin a new life, find meaningful opportunities and reintegrate into the community. Most importantly, do not let them feel like they have to tackle this all on their own. At Goodwill, we believe everyone deserves a second chance. Many local agencies offer services to men, women and youth who have served time and are trying to get their lives back on track.
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Chapter 1: Defining the Target Audience
There are many moving parts to reconnecting with friends and family, finding a place to live, finding work, to name but a few can be an overwhelming process to navigate. This is especially true of people who went to prison in their youth. This is also especially true of adults that have served long sentences. By the time they have been released the world looks incredibly different from what they have experienced or were expecting. Technology is one example where the difference is quite noticeable. For example, think about phones and screens thirty years ago compared to today. Or even how that will change in the next thirty years. There is a fear in learning how to adjust and adapt, and there can be comfort in rhythm, routine, and what’s familiar (even in jail or prison). They have become institutionalized. The feeling of being institutionalized is one reason (of potentially many) why the recidivism rate is so high in America. However, many adults in custody at least have some measure of life experience on which to rely, but parolees that have spent their entire adult lives in prison might find themselves totally lost as an adult in the “real world.” Regardless of age, simply not knowing where to begin to rebuild one’s life is a significant challenge for returning citizens from the judicial system. The key to overcoming this challenge is to provide them with the resources they need to be successful. While being released from the system as a returning citizen can be a positive experience, reintegrating into society can be extremely stressful. 3
Additionally, the rejection from family, friends, and society often can lead to mental health challenges such as self doubt, anxiety and depression upon returning home. Studies show that one of the most common negative impacts of incarceration is social withdrawal and isolation. For re-entry into the free world to be successful, former inmates need to experience positive social experiences, which is something you as a Career Coach can help facilitate. But, any parolee can experience a smoother transition back to society with support from their friends and family. In fact, one of the most crucial elements of successful reintegration for former prisoners is having loved ones to help usher them through the process. For some ex-offenders, having too much free time can spell disaster. In fact, according to a study by the Brookings Institute, 77% of people released from the system are rearrested within five years. Having outlets for being productive in a positive way can help combat this trend. You can help them find outlets for being productive by facilitating participation in the multiple trainings offered through Goodwill Career Solutions or community support groups available. By facilitating participation in these and other activities, you can help mitigate one of the most common problems faced after returning home – simply not having anything to do or look forward to.
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Chapter 2: Appropriate Language Dos and Don'ts Words to avoid: inmate, offender, criminal, ex-offender, murderer, robber, sex offender, SO, prisoner, convict, felon, former criminal, parolee, detainee, Words to use: someone with a criminal background, client, someone who was previously incarcerated, adult in custody, returning citizen, someone who was convicted of a felony. Why? The criminal system is already broken, focusing on warehousing and punishment, with little emphasis on rehabilitation. People are dehumanized while incarcerated, often being treated like a caged animal. Rehabilitation is allowing someone to get back up on their feet after failing. When you define someone by the crime they committed, you are defining them based on their worst mistakes. No where else in society do we define someone based on their lowest moment in life. It is important not to judge someone who has been arrested or incarcerated. It might not feel like a drastic difference, but there is a difference between an inmate and an adult in custody, or an ex offender and someone who was previously incarcerated. The order matters. It is a conversation not interrogation: It is important to get specific information when speaking with someone with a criminal background. How we ask them and word things matters too. For example, if their criminal record includes a sexual offense, they are not eligible for Goodwill Career Solutions services. This is why it is important to have other places and resources available to refer to them. When discussing details of their past, keep in mind this can be difficult for someone to talk about. Discussing past traumatic events can be triggering. It is important to treat it like a conversation, not an interrogation. The crime they commited was not against YOU, so be careful of your tone and word usage. Geographical Differences: The criminal justice system looks drastically different throughout the United States, which means there could be cultural or geographically differences in regards to terminology. For example, Oregon is more progressive than other states. The terminology used inside correctional facilities is “AIC, adults in custody”, not an inmate, prisoner, criminal or offender. This may not be the case for other states. State to state terminology differs drastically and this can lead to hurtful terminology being normalized. In most cases, someone uses offensive terminology unintentionally. To ensure positive terminology, be mindful of the words you choose.
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Do Not Assume: This is a great rule in general, but specifically applies in the criminal justice system. An arrest does not mean a conviction. Often, the charges are dropped because they were false, but the arrest can still stay on someone’s record and be used against them. This can also be confusing for the client. Also, just because someone pleads guilty, does not mean they committed the crime. This may seem false, but it is not. There are many cases where a person cannot afford a lawyer. They are then given a public defender (who is drastically overworked and paid by the case), who tells the person to take the plea. The plea means less jail time and prosecutors will use scare tactics. Why risk your entire life, when you can just plead down to a couple years? They are desperate, scared, and out of options. To be fair, that is not always the case. However, I used this example to prove a point. Do not assume you know anything about someone’s story. We can miss many important details if we disregard someone or assume we have this person figured out. There may be more to the story. Most Important Takeaway (recap) : We are not our worst mistake. We all fail and make mistakes, what is most important is how we get back up. Use empowering terminology. Avoid offense descriptors, and remember the order in which you describe someone matters. Create a safe atmosphere for someone to share details about their situation. Once you know all the details, have those resources ready so you can point them in the right direction.
“I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better.” Maya Angelou
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Chapter 3: The Intake Process
STEP1: GET TO KNOW THE CLIENTS ● Learn the challenges clients face in gaining employment. ● Conduct initial interviews and develop client service plans. ● Recognize that many clients face multiple barriers i.e. homelessness, transportation, and lack of support systems. ● Learn the training and experience clients have that can be highlighted and focus on the positive aspects. ● Identify community resource information and provide resource handbooks. ● Before applying for jobs, clients need to know what actually shows on their criminal records. ● Identify the parameters of probation or parole supervision. ● Show clients how to look up their criminal records online and/or how to get access to their records. ● Know your terminology so you can help clients understand what is on their records. ● Address issues specific to the clients i.e. job applications, job interviews, and resumes. ● Provide resume assistance, address gaps in employment, highlight skills and qualifications. ● Review jobs to apply for and not to apply for. ● Answering criminal conviction questions and reason for leaving questions. ● Provide a list of interview questions and tips. ● Answering the tough interview questions - turning negatives into positives and conducting mock interviews. Focus on clients’ assets to businesses.
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Chapter 4: Eliminating Client Barriers
STEP 2: IDENTIFYING BARRIERS & HOW TO OVERCOME Identified Barrier: Identification Assistance Career Coach: Ask clients if they have two forms of identification for employment. This is something that can often be taken for granted, but it is vital for employment and housing. Many of those that have been released from prison do not have credible identification and this makes the application process nearly impossible. We have included resources in each part of middle TN that can help someone get the identification that they need. No Social Security Card: The Social Security Administration has introduced the expansion of online services for residents of Tennessee available through its My Social Security portal at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount. To apply for an original card, you must provide at least two documents to prove age, identity, and U.S. citizenship or current lawful, work-authorized immigration status. No State ID: To apply for an ID card, residents must visit a local Driver Services Center to complete the identification card application in person. Applicants cannot get an ID card online or by mail. ● Proof of U.S. citizenship, authorized stay or lawful permanent resident status ● Primary proof of identity, such as a U.S. photo driver license, birth certificate, military ID or U.S. passport ● Secondary proof of identity, such as a union membership card, computerized check stub, work identification, health insurance or Social Security card ● Two proofs of state residency (must include the applicant’s name & resident address) ● Proof of Social Security Number (SSN) or an SSN Affidavit
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Identified Barrier: Transportation Resources Career Coach: Ask clients if they have a reliable form of transportation. Public transit available: Does Tennessee have public transportation? Public Transportation is available in every county in Tennessee, with a wide range of services. ... Options include fixed-route service, demand-response service, express buses, local shuttles, and complementary paratransit in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Identified Barrier: Food Assistance Career Coach: Ask clients if they are in need of food assistance. Food Pantries: Please provide clients that are in need of food assistance with a contact list for local churches, food pantries, and food distribution centers in their local area. Please recommend eligible clients to sign up for SNAP benefits as a way to supplement their needs. Identified Barrier: Phone and Email Career Coach: Ask clients if they have access to a phone and email. If the client does not have an email please assist them with creating a gmail. Lifeline is a government benefit program that offers eligible customers FREE cell phone service every month. You must participate in federal programs such as Medicaid and SNAP, or by income in order to qualify for this FREE benefit. The Emergency Broadband Benefit, or EBB, is a limited-time program that provides discounts on monthly broadband Internet access service and certain connected devices. This program is funded by the US government's COVID-19 relief efforts and operated by the FCC. While this program lasts, qualifying customers will receive UNLIMITED Data, Talk & Text! Sign up now to see if you qualify. Q Link Wireless Identified Barrier: Adult Literacy/Education Career Coach: Ask clients what their education background is and if they’re interested in getting their GED.
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Identified Barrier: Interview Clothing Career Coach: Ask clients if they have proper interview clothing to wear. The virtual training Goodwill has to offer is “Interviewing for Work,” and in that training dress attire is discussed. There is a saying that many of us have heard at some point, “Dress for the job you want.” Unfortunately, many of those that have been incarcerated either don’t have the proper clothes or the money to be able to afford these clothes. Interviewing is already intimidating enough, but having to worry about what you are wearing only adds to that stress. We have included resources that help donate clothes for those that need it. Identified Barrier: Healthcare Career Coach: Ask clients if they have any medical concerns that they need addressed. Often, these are too expensive and thus out of reach. We have included healthcare resources near the Career Solutions Centers where someone with a criminal background can go. Please see the appendix at the end of this playbook. Identified Barrier: Substance Abuse & Mental Health Career Coach: Ask clients if they struggle with substance abuse or if they have any mental health concerns. The process of prisoner reentry is hard enough as it is, but for ex-inmates with mental health issues, it can be a far greater challenge. When an ex-inmate is suffering from anxiety, depression, psychosis, drug addiction, or other mental health issues, finding a safe place to live, a stable job, and otherwise reintegrating into society can feel like an impossible task. Identified Barrier: Transitional House Career Coach: Ask clients if they need assistance finding transitional housing. Most people that are re-entering society after prison face enormous obstacles in finding adequate housing. According to a report by the American Psychological Association, because the risk of not finding housing is so high, some parolees experience homelessness upon their release. Difficulty in finding housing can be caused by any number of factors – lack of income, policies that make it more difficult for parolees to obtain housing, and lack of public housing are among the most common. The first month after someone is released from prison is the most critical for adjusting to life after jail. 10
Chapter 5: Diversion Program and Potential Resource Types of Release: Parole: "Parole" means the release of a prisoner to the community by the Board of Parole (BOP) prior to the expiration of the offender's sentence. Release is subject to conditions imposed by the BOP and supervision is provided by the Department of Correction. Offenders that are granted parole may have pre-parole conditions that must be successfully completed before release to parole supervision. Examples of pre-parole conditions include, but are not limited to, attending and completing various classes such as pro-social life skills, group therapy, or therapeutic community. Parolees may also be given post-parole special conditions they must abide by as part of parole supervision. Examples of post-parole special conditions include, but are not limited to, release to a halfway house only or substance use assessment. Sex offenders on parole are subject to the specialized conditions for sex offenders. Offenders granted parole are not released from prison until a release plan has been approved by a probation parole office. A release plan identifies where the parolee will live and work upon release from prison. Probation: "Probation" means the release by a court of a person found guilty of a crime without imprisonment, subject to conditions imposed by the court and subject to the supervision of the Department of Correction. Probationers may be placed on probation as part of split confinement, where they must spend some time in jail before being released to probation, or they may be sentenced to probation directly. Probationers must report to the probation parole officer within 48 hours of being placed on probation or upon release from a split confinement sentence. All probationers are required to follow the terms and conditions of probation as listed on the probation order. Sex offenders on probation may be subject to the specialized conditions for sex offenders. Courts may also order an offender to complete special conditions.
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Determinate Release: Determinate release is a special type of probation. Offenders are subject to follow the rules and conditions established on their determinate release certificate. The Department of Correction issues all determinate release certificates. According to Tennessee Code Annotated 40-35-501, offenders with felony sentences of at least one year, but not more than two years, are eligible for determinate release probation. To qualify, offenders must have served at least 30 percent of their sentence. Prior to being released, state law requires that the district attorney, sheriff and warden of the prison where the offender is held be notified that the offender is eligible for release. If there are objections to the offender's release, an objection petition must be filed with the sentencing court. Community Corrections: The Community Corrections Program was created by statute in 1985 and allows sentencing of non-violent felony offenders to community-based alternatives to incarceration in order to reserve confinement for violent offenders. The goal of the program is to reduce the probability of continued criminal behavior while maintaining the safety of the community. The Community Corrections Program allows taxpayers dollars to be diverted from the high costs of incarceration for non-violent offenders. The state contracts with local governments and qualified private agencies to develop a range of front-end community based supervision and resource services for eligible offenders. Community Corrections offers local courts increased sentencing options, assists victims and provides public service to local governments. There are 19 contract programs operating in Tennessee: six non-profit agencies, six human resource agencies and seven county programs. Within the 19 programs, there are three residential programs (two for men and one for women) and three day reporting centers. To find a local office serving your area, view our directory of agencies. https://www.tn.gov/correction/cs/types-of-release.html
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Chapter 6: Types of Financial Benefits – Am I Eligible? Financial Benefits/Resources: Felons convicted of certain drug-related offenses are not eligible for SNAP benefits. Individuals disqualified for fraud are ineligible for one year for the first offense, two years for the second offense, and permanently for the third. Dependents of disqualified or ineligible individuals may be eligible. https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/forfamilies/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap/supplemental-nutritionassistance-program-snap-eligibility-information.html What is Expungement? Expungement is a court-ordered process where the legal record of some criminal cases can be erased in the eyes of the law. https://www.tncourts.gov/expungements Reentry Screening Tool: Find Out if Your Charges Can Be Removed from Your Record The Reentry Program for the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands, in partnership with the Georgetown University Law Center, developed a Tennessee Expungement Eligibility Assessment web-based app to increase access to self-help expungement eligibility information. This app will tell you what things on your criminal record you may be able to have taken off your record. This is also known as an expungement. Once you answer all of the questions, the app will tell you what expungements you might be eligible for. You can have your answers sent to an email address so that you have proof of the report. A copy will also be sent to a legal expert with the Legal Aid Society. Expungement can help you get a job, find housing, get student loans, or access other opportunities that were previously not an option because of criminal convictions or charges. Expungement allows you to legally deny an incident, arrest, or conviction that occurred for charges that have been expunged. https://las.org/reentry-screening/ SSI/SSDI: Although you cannot receive monthly Social Security benefits while you are incarcerated, benefits to your spouse or children will continue as long as they remain eligible. If you are receiving SSI, the social security administration office will suspend your payments while you're in prison. Your payments can start again in the month you are released. https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10133.pdf
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An individual released from incarceration may be eligible for Social Security retirement, survivors, or disability benefits if they have worked or paid into Social Security enough years. An individual released from incarceration may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income benefits if they are 65 or older, are blind, or have a disability and have little or no income and resources. Social Security’s Definition of Disability We consider you disabled under Social Security rules if:
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You cannot do work that you did before;
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Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.
We decide that you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition(s); and
If you meet the above requirements, Social Security benefits also may pay:
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Your child who is under age 18, or severely disabled before age 22, or Your wife who is 62 or older, or is caring for your child who is under age 16 or severely disabled before age 22.
For additional information via our pamphlets, please see the links below:
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What Prisoners Need To Know Entering The Community After Incarceration—How We Can Help
If you believe you qualify, call our toll-free telephone number, 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call TTY 1-800-325-0778.
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Chapter 7: Social Media
Social media is a multi-directional stage for human conversation. Additionally, social media allows people to generate content, share experiences, and share insight with others. Websites that allow users to engage with one another by generating content. The social media platforms that are most commonly used include Facebook,Instagram and LinkedIn. Listed below are some other social media sites to assist clients with a criminal background. Alcoholics Anonymous Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Hotline Narcotics Anonymous Help for Felons Tennessee Reentry Collaborative Re-entry Programs in TN
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Appendix: Resources Community Resource Guides for 2022 Opportunities for Ex-Offenders Criminal Background Information & Resources
Identification Assistance: DMV Rutherford County: 1035 Samsonite Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37129 (615)898-8036 DMV Wilson County: 204 Maddox Simpson Pkwy, Lebanon, TN 37090 (615)443-2757 DMV Davidson County: 700 2nd Ave S #101, Nashville, TN 37210 (615)862-6251 Birth/Death/Marriage/Divorce Certificate : Tennessee Vital Records Central Services Building 4215th Avenue, North Nashville, TN 37243 P: 615.741.1763 I: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/w2w/tennessee.htm Social Security Card: National Contact: U.S. Social Security Administration Office of Public Inquiry P: 800.772.1213 I: http://www.socialsecurity.gov Printable Application: https://www.ssa.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf USPS Apply for a P.O. Box: https://faq.usps.com/s/article/PO-Box-TheBasics#howdoiapply Hickory Hollow Driver Services & Reinstatement Center 5216 Hickory Hollow Pkwy, Antioch, TN 37013 (615) 770-5701, Open Monday-Friday 8:30 am - 5 pm Franklin Driver Services Center 3830 Carothers Pkwy, Franklin, TN 37067 (615) 790-5515 (Open Monday-Friday 8:30 am - 5 pm) DMV Maury County: 1701 Hampshire Pike, Columbia, TN 38401 Phone: (931) 3802548
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Job programs for convicted felons: Take a look at these resources for help finding a job if you have a felony conviction: ● Work opportunity tax credit ● Federal bonding program ● Help for felons ● Second chance jobs for felons Work opportunity tax credit The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal government program offering a tax credit to incentivize employers to hire ex-felons and applicants from other groups with work entry barriers, such as veterans and recipients of temporary assistance (TANF) and food stamps (SNAP). Ex-felons must be hired within one year of their release or the end of their parole or probation. The WOTC program provides employers with a credit of up to $9,600 each year, for every employee that meets the criteria to qualify under the credit. How much credit employers can claim is based on what specific group the individual falls under within the specified target groups, the individual's total wages received in the first year of work and how many hours they worked. Related: Guide to Unemployment Benefits Federal bonding program The Federal Bonding Program is the second government assistance program that helps felons find employment by reducing the risk of hiring them. The program sells employers an insurance policy safeguarding them against potential theft, forgery, larceny or other intentional losses of value caused by at-risk employees covered by the policy. At-risk individuals include those with criminal backgrounds, individuals in treatment for addiction and those with little work experience. The bond lasts for six months and usually covers $5,000 of damage, though businesses can request coverage up to $25,000 in some cases. Coverage is issued by the Department of Labor and begins the first day of employment. Once the six-month period is up, employers may pay for additional coverage going forward.
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Second chance jobs for felons Second Chance Jobs for Felons was founded in 2016 and aims to provide free services to felons including information about the following resources: Companies that will hire felons Their database of companies includes over 275 employers across the country that will hire applicants with criminal records. The list is updated daily, includes information about each company and a search button to locate available jobs within the organization. Once you click on a company's search jobs button a search bar is located on the right side of the webpage allowing you to search all jobs for felons by keywords, location, time since release and other details regarding your convictions and education. Apprenticeship programs Second Chance Jobs for Felons provides a searchable database for apprenticeships programs allowing felons to access on-the-job training and classroom education at no cost. These programs allow those with criminal records a pathway for career and life success. Truck driving schools This resource also provides information to get a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to get hired as a truck driver, as long as you have a clean driving record. Relief and legal assistance A database of resources for post-conviction relief such as pardons, expungement and the sealing of your record. This database helps you locate attorneys near you to help you begin these processes. Healthcare Resources: Neighborhood Health- Neighborhood Health is committed to improving the health and well-being for all in our community. For more than four decades, Neighborhood Health has provided convenient, affordable, comprehensive, and high-quality primary healthcare to the Nashville area. Our 10 Neighborhood Health locations serve the entire family, offering medical, dental, and behavioral healthcare. Care is available at convenient hours, with or without an appointment. We have interpretation services at all locations and can serve you in your preferred language. We accept most insurance and TennCare plans, and we offer a sliding fee for those without health insurance. You will not be denied care because of inability to pay. 18
https://www.neighborhoodhealthtn.org/ Inglewood, East Nashville, Lebanon, Madison, Welshwood, Cleveland Park, several Nashville, and Downtown Nashville locations. Hope Clinic-The Primary Care & Hope Clinic is a non-profit community health center providing quality, affordable family health services to medically uninsured, underserved, Medicare, TennCare and privately insured families in Middle Tennessee. http://www.hopeclnc.org/ 615-893-9390. 1453 Hope Way Murfreesboro TN 37129 Interfaith Dental- Interfaith Dental Clinic provides comprehensive and emergency dental services for low-income, uninsured individuals suffering from devastating dental disease. https://interfaithdental.com/ 615-225-4141. 210 Robert Rose Dr Ste 2 Murfreesboro, TN 37129 Catholic Charities- 2195 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN 37211. They help with disaster recovery, emergency assistance, emotional support (counseling), family resources, immigration services and resources, housing stability, hunger relief, and job training. (615) 352-3087 Neighborhood Health- 2195 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN 37211 (615) 227-3000 (Located inside of the Catholic Charities building) Mercy Community Healthcare: 1113 MURFREESBORO ROAD, SUITE 319 | FRANKLIN, TN 37064122 E. COMMERCE STREET | LEWISBURG, TN 37091 FRANKLIN: 615.790.0567 | LEWISBURG: 615.814.3400 Provides quality, integrated healthcare for all ages. This includes primary care such as well and sick visits, behavioral and mental health services like counseling and psychiatry, chronic disease management and care coordination, which includes assistance finding medical specialists and access to social services and basic needs. We offer a sliding scale, a self-pay program to assist the uninsured and underinsured. https://mercytn.org/ Maury County Health Department: Address: 1999 Hampshire Pike, Columbia, TN 38401; Phone 931-388-5757; Hours: 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 Open⋅Closes 4:30PM Williamson County Health Department | Franklin Clinic: Address: 1324 W Main St, Franklin, TN 37064; Phone 615-794-7542; Hours; 8:00a.m.-4:30p.m Food Assistance Resources: Family Center: Address: 921 Beckett St, Columbia, TN 38401; Phone: (931)388- 3840 The Family Center, also known as The South Central Family Center, Inc., is an independent non-profit organization located in Columbia, Tennessee, and is dedicated to empowering individuals to break the cycle of poverty. The Family Center provides 19
immediate hands-on assistance, particularly with crises stemming from poverty. Our focus is to restore stability and to teach families how to solve problems, not solving the problems for them.https://familycenter.org/ The Well Outreach, Inc. -Address: 5306 Main St, Spring Hill, TN 37174; Phone: (615) 302-9355. The Well Outreach is recognized as a nonprofit organization. http://www.springhillwell.org/index.html Harvest Share Food Pantry: Address: 419 W 9th St, Columbia, TN 38401; Phone: (931) 381-4285. Harvest Share Food Pantry of Maury County is a faith-based hunger relief organization located in Columbia TN. The mission of Harvest Share is to provide food and comfort to those unable to help themselves. https://www.harvestshare.com/ Journey Homes: 308 West Castle St, Murfreesboro TN 37127 https://lovegodservepeople.org/ Breakfast (Mon-Fri): 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. Lunch (Mon-Sat): 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Supper (Sat & Sun): 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Clothes Resources: Amelia’s Closet-A non-profit organization that prepares women with two interview outfits, interview tips, and a head to toe makeover gift certificate. (615) 584-9029 https://ameliascloset.org/ 810 NW Broad St., Suite 10, Murfreesboro, TN 37129 Dress for Success- A non-profit organization. The mission of Dress for Success is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire, and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. (615) 269-9922 https://www.ywcanashville.com/ 1608 Woodmont Blvd, Nashville, TN 37215 Jesus Provision Ministries- A non-profit ministry whose mission is to develop and implement programs and assistance to empower and improve the quality of life for individuals and families. We are a hand up, not a handout. They have clothes available with their Care Center. (615) 424-9422 https://jesusprovisions.org/ 505 Sunset Ct, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122 Grace Works Ministries- A non-profit organization whose mission is to Neighbor serving Neighbor, by the power of God’s grace. By pooling church resources with private and public sectors, GraceWorks has been able to offer wraparound services to a large number of individuals and families in need. Graceworks offers assistance with rental 20
and electrical services, a food pantry, and clothing. Phone: (615) 794-9055 https://www.graceworksministries.net/who-we-are/ 104 Southeast Pkwy, Franklin, TN 37064 Transportation Resources: West Tennessee Jackson Transit Authority: Transit service in Jackson Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA): Transit service in Memphis, West Memphis, and parts of Shelby County Middle Tennessee Nashville MTA: Transit service in Nashville-Davidson County Music City Star: Commuter train connecting Nashville-Davidson County and Wilson County with stops in Martha, Mt. Juliet, Hermitage, Donelson, Lebanon, and downtown Nashville Regional Transit Authority (RTA) of Middle Tennessee: Commuter service between downtown Nashville and outlying communities of Rutherford, Sumner, Dickson, Robertson, Williamson, Wilson, and Montgomery counties Murfreesboro Rover: Transit service in Murfreesboro Clarksville Transit System: Transit service in Clarksville Franklin Transit Authority: Transit service in Franklin East Tennessee Gatlinburg Mass Transit: Trolley service in and around Gatlinburg Johnson City Transit: Transit service around Johnson City Kingsport Area Transit Service: Transit service in the Kingsport area Bristol Tennessee Transit: Transit service in the Bristol Knoxville Area Transit (KAT): Transit Service in the City of Knoxville Knox County Community Action Committee (CAC) Transit: Transit service in Knox County
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Lakeway Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (LAMPTO) Transit: Transit services in Morristown, Jefferson City, White Pine, and Hamblen and Jefferson counties Oak Ridge Transit: Transit service in the City of Oak Ridge Rural Public Transportation Services West Tennessee Delta Human Resource Agency (DHRA): Transit services Fayette, Lauderdale, rural Shelby, and Tipton counties Northwest Tennessee Human Resource Agency (NWTHRA): Transit services for Benton, Carroll, Crockett, Dyer, Gibson, Henry, Lake, Obion, and Weakley counties Southwest Human Resource Agency (SWHRA): Transit service for Chester, Decatur, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Madison, and McNairy counties Middle Tennessee Mid-Cumberland Human Resource Agency (MCHRA): Transit service for Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Houston, Humphreys, Montgomery, Robertson, Rutherford, Stewart, Sumner, Trousdale, Williamson, and Wilson counties South Central Tennessee Development District (SCTDD): Transit service for Bedford, Coffee, Franklin, Giles, Hickman, Lawrence, Lewis, Lincoln, Marshall, Maury, Moore, Perry, and Wayne counties Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA): Transit service for Canon, Clay, Cumberland, DeKalb, Fentress, Jackson, Macon, Overton, Pickett, Putnam, Smith, Van Buren, Warren, and White counties East Tennessee Southeast Tennessee Human Resource Agency (SETHRA): Transit services Bledsoe, Bradley, Grundy, Marion, McMinn, Meigs, Polk, Rhea, Sequatchie Counties and the non-urbanized areas of Bradley and Hamilton counties. East Tennessee Human Resource Agency (ETHRA): Transit for Anderson, Blount, Campbell, Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, Hamblen, Jefferson, Knox, Loudon, Monroe, Morgan, Roane, Scott, Sevier and Union counties Northeast Tennessee Rural Public Transit (NET Trans): Transit service for Carter, Greene, Hancock, Hawkins, Johnson, Sullivan, Unicoi and Washington Counties (operated by First Tennessee Human Resource Agency (FTHRA) 22
Transportation Services Contact Information by County: Davidson County: Nashville Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) 615-880-3970 Dickson County: Mid-Cumberland HRA 615-446-4943 Houston County: Mid-Cumberland HRA 931-289-4118 Humphreys County: Mid-Cumberland HRA 931-296-2871 Montgomery County: Mid-Cumberland HRA 931-647-4602 Robertson County: Mid-Cumberland HRA 615-384-9335 Rutherford County: Mid-Cumberland HRA 615-890-2677 Stewart County: Mid-Cumberland HRA 931-232-6416 Sumner County: Mid-Cumberland HRA 615-452-5868 Trousdale County: Mid Cumberland HRA 615-374-3311 Williamson County: Mid-Cumberland HRA 615-790-5791 Wilson County: Mid-Cumberland HRA 615-444-RIDE (7433)
Housing Resources: Rent Assistance provides a directory of rental assistance agencies and organizations that will help you pay your rent. Some listings are government organizations, others are nonprofits and charities that offer rental assistance programs. Each organization has its own eligibility rules and conditions and you are encouraged to call directly to find out what you need to do. Halfway House Directory maintains an extensive catalog of halfway homes for the physical, mental, psychological and emotional treatment of people suffering from substance abuse disorder. If you feel a loved one is going through tough times and requires help, you can contact us on the forum to seek help for them. Transitional Housing is for those who are looking for transitional housing based on their current needs. Sober living homes that help you transition back to your normal life. Sober Living Home: Homes where residents recover from substance abuse. Halfway House: Variety of homes that can assist residents with substance abuse issues, emotional issues, physical issues and to transition back to society. Recovery Home: 23
Transitional homes where residents recover from alcoholism, drug addiction, mental illness, or handicapping conditions. The state of Tennessee keeps a list of Approved Traditional Housing. Legal Resources: Legal: Free Legal Aid in Tennessee
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Goodwill Training Programs: Online & Virtual Trainings: Interviewing for Work, Applying for Work, Explore Jobs Online, Preparing for Success at Work, Resume Writing, Financial Literacy (monthly), Working from Home Training (monthly). Virtual Training Sign Up- 2022 Training Programs Overview & Registration Instructions Basic Digital Literacy/Computer Skills and Resume Class: (FREE) Class topics include: Computer Basics, Email, Online Job Search, Resume Office Productivity Skills Training: (FREE) A two day introduction into the Microsoft Office suite and Google Suite. You will learn Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel, Google Docs and Google Spreadsheets. Call Center: (PAID TRAINING COURSE - $240 after completion of course) A three-week paid training course teaching participants how to manage and respond to incoming phone calls from customers. Trainees may earn a Contact Center Associate certification. Pre-training assessments are required prior to starting training. Please call 615-742-4151 for information. Construction: (PAID TRAINING COURSE - $100/week) A four-week paid construction training program providing classroom and hands-on training to those interested in a construction career. Trainees may earn an NCCER certification. Contact Tim.Kahn@givegw.org. for application information. Custodial: (PAID TRAINING COURSE = $30/DAY) This is a 4-week custodial certificate program.The program is designed for front-line custodians and teaches basic and advanced skills in all areas of commercial building cleaning. Call 615-742-4151 for more information. Forklift: (THIS COURSE COST $100) An OSHA approved forklift certificate program that is a three to four-hour course including classroom instructor led training and hands-on training using a forklift. Some fees may apply for this program. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Google IT Professional Certificate Training: Full scholarships are available through Goodwill for an IT training program designed to prepare students for entry level IT positions such as Google IT Support, Facebook Social Media Marketing, Automation With Python, Google Project management, Google Data Analytics, and Google UX Design.
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