A New Program in White County for Justice-Involved Reentry

ARcare, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with a long-standing commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare services, is spearheading a transformative program aimed at supporting incarcerated individuals in White County. Through its Transitions in Care for Justice-Involved Populations grant, ARcare is launching a groundbreaking program designed to assist individuals aged 18-64 who are incarcerated for 30+ days and are preparing to re-enter the community within 90 days or less.

The program employs a twofold approach: one addressing healthcare and social service resources and the other focusing on inmate-specific education programming. This program marks ARcare’s first concerted effort to extend services directly into the White County Detention Center, a facility that releases an average of 392 inmates per month, with many facing chronic health conditions and socio-economic challenges.

White County faces significant public health concerns, with high rates of hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and substance use disorders among its incarcerated population. ARcare has identified substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, mental health services, healthcare education, and social support as top priorities to ensure a successful reintegration process for justice-involved individuals.

Historically, the White County Detention Center has been limited in providing medical care beyond intake screenings and emergency interventions. The current medical provider, TurnKey Health, only addresses chronic conditions if an inmate discloses their medical history, leaving many without essential treatment. Furthermore, there is a stark lack of mental health and substance use disorder services within the facility. With substance-related offenses being the leading cause of incarceration, the need for structured treatment programs is urgent.

The financial burden on the jail is significant, as incarcerated individuals lose Medicaid coverage upon incarceration, leaving the county responsible for their healthcare expenses. This program aims to bridge that gap by ensuring continuity of care during incarceration and after release, facilitating access to medical treatment and necessary social services.

The White County Justice-Involved Reentry Program will be implemented in collaboration with key community partners, including the White County Sheriff’s Department, Restore Hope/100 Families, and The Literacy Council of White County. Together, these organizations will work to create an integrated system addressing medical, mental health, and social barriers to reentry.

Healthcare and Social Services Track:

• Medical Screenings & Treatment Planning: ARcare’s medical team will provide screenings for infectious diseases (HIV, Hepatitis C), chronic conditions, and mental health concerns. Those identified as needing ongoing care will be connected with ARcare facilities upon release.

• Medication Assistance & Pharmacy Support: ARcare will ensure inmates receive appropriate medications and transition plans, particularly for SUD and mental health treatment.

• Insurance Enrollment: Case managers will assist in Medicaid re-enrollment before release, preventing gaps in healthcare access.

• Social Services Navigation: The program will connect individuals to housing, employment, food assistance, and transportation resources, crucial for a stable transition back into society.

Education & Reentry Preparation Track:

• Evidence-Based Reentry Curriculum: The program will implement the “Getting Ahead While Getting Out” curriculum, equipping individuals with essential life skills for reintegration.

• Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT): A structured therapy model designed to address criminal thinking patterns and reduce recidivism.

• Substance Use & Mental Health Support: Restoring AA, NA, and MARA (Medication Assisted Recovery Anonymous) programs within the facility to provide peer-led support for recovery.

• Job Readiness & Literacy Training: The Literacy Council of White County will offer education and vocational training, helping participants build financial literacy and employment skills.

The biggest obstacles identified through interviews with formerly incarcerated individuals include lack of healthcare access, stigma, transportation difficulties, and financial constraints. ARcare’s program directly tackles these issues:

• Free Transportation Services: ARcare will expand its transportation network to ensure individuals can access medical care and job opportunities post-release.

• Continued Case Management: Each participant will have a dedicated case manager for one year post-release, ensuring sustained access to needed resources.

• “Release Backpacks” will be provided to every program participant, containing essential items, educational materials, Narcan kits, and contact information for healthcare and social services.

This pilot program not only aims to reduce recidivism rates in White County but also serves as a scalable model for other rural communities facing similar challenges. If successful, ARcare plans to expand its efforts to other detention centers across Arkansas, ensuring that justice-involved individuals have the support and resources necessary to rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.

With community collaboration and a focus on evidence-based solutions, the White County Justice-Involved Reentry Program stands as a beacon of hope for individuals seeking a fresh start. ARcare’s commitment to healthcare access, mental wellness, and social support will pave the way for a more inclusive and effective justice system, prioritizing rehabilitation over recidivism.