Offender Aid and Restoration of Richmond

OAR provides educational and support services to persons incarcerated in six area jails. They also support people released into the community from local jails, state and federal prisons.

Programs Supported by the Community Action Fund:

The Pre- and Post-Release program helps offenders make successful transitions upon reentry into the community. The program provides a continuum of services ranging from education and support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and parenting groups to assistance with transportation, housing, and job search, placement, and retention. Referrals are provided for medical and mental health treatment, substance abuse treatment, legal aid, and other community services as needed. Once an individual has gained employment, OAR will purchase work tools, work clothes, safety shoes, and other items required by the client’s employer if no alternative funding source is available.

Transportation assistance is provided as needed until the client receives their first full paycheck. Clients are also eligible for rent assistance once employment is verified. In addition, clients are provided with personal hygiene items and seasonal clothing such as coats and gloves as needed.