WASHINGTON — The READY center officially opened Tuesday morning, connecting released inmates to necessary resources.
According to Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office, “Within 30 days prior to an inmate’s release, he or she will fill out an interest card to identify his or her post-release needs. Upon release, returning citizens will participate in a one-time visit to the READY Center.”
Follow-up visits will take place at the respective agency.
“It’s a game-changer,” said Department of Corrections Director, Quincy Booth.
Returning citizens get help with everything from a driver’s license to behavioral health services.
A number of city agencies and community-based organizations are supporting this effort, including the Mayor’s Office on Returning Citizen Affairs, Department of Corrections, Department of Behavioral Health, Department of Human Services, Department of Employment Services and Department of Motor Vehicles.
Booth said, nearly 3,000 D.C. residents are released every year.