Re-entry resources
Supporting successful re-entry into the community is a vital part of the work we care about at Books to Prisoners. This page highlights Washington State resources that assist individuals transitioning out of incarceration — from housing and legal aid to basic needs and community connection. Whether you're seeking support for yourself or looking to better understand the landscape of re-entry services, these organizations are doing meaningful work.
2-1-1 Washington
Dial 2-1-1 from anywhere in Washington State and you will reach a highly-trained information and referral specialist who will assess your needs and provide a list of referrals to available resources in your community.
Washington 211 has a database of over 27,000 resources to help you find the right services. 2-1-1 is a free confidential community service and your one-stop connection to the local services you need, from utility assistance, food, housing, health, child care, after school programs, elder care, crisis intervention and much more. Referrals are usually given over the phone or can be emailed or texted to you.
In crisis situations a warm transfer can be made directly to crisis specialists or 9-1-1. TTY for the deaf and hard of hearing and interpreter services are also available in 140+ languages. If you are outside of Washington or have a problem dialing the number 2-1-1, please dial 1-877-211-9274.
Civil Survival
Civil Survival’s work is led by and for formerly incarcerated individuals. They organize people in the state of Washington who have been directly impacted by the criminal justice system to build connections, gain knowledge and increase political participation. Provides information and self-help forms for vacating your misdemeanor or felony conviction. The website includes 55 resource guides created by formerly incarcerated people that cover re-entry, housing, basic needs, legal support, etc. (Civil Survival Resource Guides).
Freedom Project
Provide rides from the gate, toiletries, bus passes, clothes, help with groceries, phone setup, getting to appointments, general resource support, and community circles.
206-325-5678
reentry@freedomprojectwa.org
Freedom Project, PO Box 57, Renton, WA, 98057
Credible Allies Program
The Credible Allies Program is a specific Safe Return Reentry collaboration between Freedom Project and Credible Messengers to provide support for Black, Indigenous and Latinx people who are dealing with the impact of involvement with the legal system. The Credible Allies collaboration currently provides support in the Puget Sound area.Contact: 206-231-1386 (call or text)
Seattle Public Library
The Seattle Public Library offers a robust collection of resources for formerly incarcerated individuals and their families, covering everything from reentry assistance and legal help to education, employment, and family support services. Visit their website or contact a librarian directly to explore these free resources.