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The City of Chicago's Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) revealed an initiative to reduce the struggles of returning to society for formerly incarcerated individuals.

On November 1, the SPRING Forward Program (Selected Pre-Release for Intensive Navigation support Going Forward) was announced via a press release on the City's official website. According to the release, SPRING Forward is a re-entry program that aims to provide comprehensive support for individuals reentering society after incarceration, including extensive housing and employment navigation.

The program and its lead administrators will work with residents released from the Cook County Department of Corrections and the Illinois Department of Corrections.

Mayor Brandon Johnson said that SPRING Forward supports those who have progressed through the system and helps break the cycle of incarceration.

"Providing pathways to returning residents is a critical step in supporting [our] plan, and supporting those who have progressed through the system and are facing enormous hurdles as they return to their communities," he said.

HOW TO APPLY TO SPRING FORWARD

Requirements: Recently released within 18 months, 18 years old and older, must be a Chicago resident or returning to Chicago and facing housing insecurity (homelessness or uncertain housing options).

How to apply: Contact Cara Collective's SPRING Forward hotline at (312) 798-3310. They'll help secure employment and provide a base of support for participants of SPRING Forward.

Once enrolled in employment services with Cara Collective, Lawndale Christian Legal Center (LCLC) will lead the housing navigation by facilitating access to reasonably priced housing and housing-supportive services to stabilize residents and mitigate the risk of recidivism.