To the editor:

Kudos to the Journal-World and reporter Chad Lawhorn for the July 7 story about ex-offender Marcus Crawford. Hundreds of thousands of inmates leave America’s prisons annually, and it’s past time for the government, businesses and the public to address the barriers facing them as they reintegrate into society. This issue is complicated, but one thing is clear: Public safety hinges on the ex-offender’s ability to successfully reintegrate into society.

Some argue that offenders aren’t worthy of rehabilitation and services; they broke the law and should continue to pay whatever consequences arise from their actions. Many believe rehabilitative efforts and the provision of services are commensurate to coddling and enabling those deemed the least deserving. My question is this: Do you and your children deserve to live safely in your communities? If the answer is yes, then a systematic approach to supporting offenders as they re-enter society is a no-brainer because, like it or not, they’re getting out, and they’re returning to our communities.

Studies and program outcomes demonstrate that former offenders who have stable housing and employment, along with substance abuse, mental health and medical treatment, among other fundamental services, are less likely to re-offend, making our neighborhoods safer, even with ex-offenders residing within them. Attainable solutions exist, but they require a new approach to the problem and a willingness among key players to form partnerships. Conversely, dismissing the needs of former offenders is a socially irresponsible act because it perpetuates the cycle of violence and victimization.

Kimberly White,

Lawrence