The largest mental health facilities are often the jails.  It is estimated that 60% of those impacted by mental illness and incarcerated could be rehabilitated in the community if housing were available. The Office of Diversion and Reentry (ODR) programs serve to reduce these numbers by providing jail in-reach and intensive treatment, removing inmates, or diverting them prior to incarceration. 

Immediately upon release or diversion, clients are placed in interim housing facilities where the Alcott Center begins providing intensive case management services, each case manager serving as the point of contact for the client’s medical, mental health, and other supportive services.

Similar to homelessness, reentry into society after living in the prison system is a major stressor for many of the individuals we help.

All too often, when a mental health crisis arises, the police are encountered, resulting in many facing incarceration. In fact, it is estimated that 15 - 30% of those incarcerated are impacted by mental health challenges. Many of these individuals have committed minor crimes related to their illness. While incarcerated, they often do not receive adequate treatment causing symptoms to worsen, an increased risk of victimization, additional trauma and longer jail stays.