Promoting Justice: The Bail Fund Program

While media representations suggest that all incarcerated persons have been convicted of a crime, those closer to the reality know that over 85% of the people who pass through the jail are pre-trial detainees. In keeping with our mission to ensure that all members of our community, regardless of economic status, race or gender, obtain equal justice before the law, we post bails of up to $1500 for people who are carefully screened and meet our criteria. Since those who have the financial means will post their own bails, our clients are typically the people without means who would otherwise remain incarcerated while awaiting trial. In addition to promoting justice, this program saves the county over $200,000 annually in potential incarceration costs.

Promoting Connection: Immediate Assistance Services

We know that jail is a tough place to be anytime. Throughout the year, in order to mitigate the destructive impact of incarceration, O.A.R. staff provide crisis counseling and enable inmates to maintain contact with their families and friends. We are serving, on average, 100 clients per month. Those now in jail will return to our community, and the Immediate Assistance and Volunteer programs lay the groundwork for eventual restoration. Since people in jail have complex obligations and needs, we facilitate communication with legal counsel, employers and other service providers.

Toward a Positive Re-Entry: Transition Services

Returning to the community after jail can be daunting. The most fundamental needs may not be met: shelter, clothing, food, transportation. Locating resources and services, including substance abuse treatment, is challenging, especially for youth, who often find themselves in a legal gray-area. But preparing for the transition with a trained counselor can make a crucial difference and, with assistance and support, imagining a fresh start may seem possible.

Drop-In Center

In our offices at N. Plain Street, we keep a welcoming space for former inmates and friends and families of those currently incarcerated. Here staff provide crisis counseling and information on area services. In addition, we offer a phone for local calls to seek housing, employment or services, and a bulletin board to leave and retrieve messages. Thus we make maintaining a productive life on the outside a little easier.

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