Convicted Felons Essay

1336 Words3 Pages

Everyday someone is released from prisons and jails, but what happens to them afterwards? These people are now view as convicted felons and a threat to society. This image can present difficulties with getting a job. Convicted Felons should have the same rights to social welfare and food stamps like the rest of society with no restrictions.Many people believe that convicted criminals should not have help from the government after being released from jail or prison. However, if they do not get the help they need they will probably go back to doing the same things they were doing to go to prison in the first place. When in reality they simply are trying to support themselves and their family. Convicted felons that have been released should be …show more content…

According to Roberta Meyers a member of the Legal Action Center ‘People who have been incarcerated need a leg up to successfully re-enter the community’”(Wiltz). Convicted felons that have been released from jail often have little money and family support, therefore they need the government’s help to put their life back together. Meyers also added, “Most have a hard time getting a job and initially need to rely on public assistance. And food is a basic primary way they need help”(Wiltz). One of the primary needs of survival is food. Food stamps and other government programs help meet this crucial need. It is difficult to focus on getting a job and supporting yourself when you are worried where your next meal is coming …show more content…

The programs are designed to help address their problems; anger and addiction. This is the initial step of preparing inmates to succeed when they are released. Once an inmate is released from prison there should be resources available as part of their “transition” back to society. The resources should be financial, emotional, and focused on job training. The goal should be to help prevent prisoners released from prison from returning to prison. “Most ex-felons say that their greatest desire ...is to be released and given a fair chance to succeed in America. When businesses close their doors to ex-felons refuse to allow ex-felons a chance to work..”

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