The Kansas Department of Corrections has received a $4.67 million national grant for a program designed to make sure offenders don’t commit new crimes after being released from prison.

“We all benefit when offenders avoid committing new crimes and are able to become productive, tax-paying members of society,” Gov. Kathleen Sebelius said.

Sebelius said the grant would help the current offender re-entry and risk-reduction program in the corrections department.

“Offenders require legitimate support to succeed,” Secretary of Corrections Roger Werholtz said. “They need to know how to maintain housing and jobs, and live harmoniously with their families.”

The JEHT Foundation of New York, one of the largest private funders of criminal justice in the country, provided the grant. JEHT stands for Justice, Equality, Human Dignity and Tolerance.