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ELIZABETH CITY – Trillium Health Resources will host a third reentry simulation at the K.E. White Graduate Center at Elizabeth City State University on Jan. 30, 2024.

This event will provide a hands-on experience of the barriers for individuals released from incarceration, including those with severe substance use, mental illness, and intellectual/developmental disabilities.

Through volunteers and role-playing, attendees experience situations trying to access services and resources that are often challenging and difficult to navigate.

Each attendee will be assigned a specific profile and given a list of tasks to complete. Participants will attempt to find jobs, attend treatment appointments, maintain stable housing, and comply with the conditions of their release. For example, if too many years have lapsed, a person may only have access to a learner’s permit instead of a full license. This limits when they can drive, lessening their ability to find employment or housing.

Around 30,000 individuals are incarcerated in the state of North Carolina. Each year, around two-thirds of them are released. With recidivism rates around 35-40%, prison populations remain steady. A huge factor for recidivism is not having proper support and encouragement upon reentry. Groups like “Our Journey” are working to change that.

“Our Journey” sends a resource kit that includes a book with support and tips on the emotions they may experience, gift cards to restaurants, a local resource guide, a t-shirt, and two doses of narcan. Individuals recently released from prison are 40 times more likely to die from an opioid overdose.

To learn more or to register for the free event in Elizabeth City, visit Trillium’s website.