Housing & Shelter
A safe place to sleep tonight, halfway houses, sober living homes, and transitional housing.
- Emergency shelters with hot beds
- Halfway houses & transitional programs
- What to expect: curfews, drug testing
Welcome Home. You Are Not Alone.
Stepping out of prison can feel overwhelming. Things may have changed, and technology can feel confusing. Take a deep breath. You do not have to figure everything out on your first day.
This guide is written in clear, simple words with real phone numbers and addresses to help you get safe housing, food, medical care, a state ID, and steady employment in Illinois.
⚠️ Important First Rule of Release
If you are on Mandatory Supervised Release (MSR) or Parole, your #1 duty is to check in with your parole officer within the timeframe given on your discharge slip (usually within 24 to 48 hours). Do not miss or delay this appointment.
What Do You Need Most Right Now?
Click any card below to jump straight to that information:
Rehab & Health
Substance use treatment, detox, mental health counseling, prescription refills, and Medicaid.
- Substance detox & outpatient clinics
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (Suboxone)
- Signing up for Illinois Medicaid
Jobs & Training
Employers who hire people with records, job training programs, and help with resumes.
- Second-chance Illinois employers
- Free union trade apprenticeships
- Free interview clothes and work boots
ID, Phone & Food
Getting your Illinois State ID, Social Security card, free Lifeline smartphone, and food stamps.
- Secretary of State Reentry ID card
- Free government phone with minutes
- SNAP / LINK food card applications
Parole & Legal
Rules of parole, how to avoid violations, free legal aid, and record expungement/sealing.
- Parole check-in rules & travel permits
- Free legal defense & civil aid clinics
- Sealing or expunging criminal records
Print Pocket Guide
A simple 1-page physical paper sheet of all vital phone numbers and addresses to print at a library.
- All key hotlines in one place
- No computer needed once printed
- Foldable into your pocket or wallet
Your First 72 Hours Checklist (Days 1 to 3)
Follow these steps in order. Take them one at a time. Check off each box once you finish.
1
Step 1: Check In with Parole or Probation Immediately
If you have mandatory supervision, call or go to your assigned parole office on your discharge paperwork.Bring: IDOC discharge slip, release papers, and any temporary ID. Tell your agent your current address.
2
Step 2: Secure Safe Housing for Tonight
If you do not have a guaranteed bed with family, go to an intake shelter or transitional home before 5:00 PM. Beds fill up quickly in the evening.
3
Step 3: Apply for Food Assistance (SNAP / LINK) & Medicaid
You can get food stamps ($290+ per month) and health coverage immediately. In Illinois, having a felony conviction does NOT disqualify you from SNAP.
4
Step 4: Get Your Illinois State ID or Driver's License
You cannot open a bank account, rent an apartment, or get a job without a government photo ID. Use your IDOC discharge papers and Illinois Secretary of State Reentry form for fee reductions.
5
Step 5: Get a Free Smartphone with Monthly Minutes (Lifeline)
If you receive SNAP, Medicaid, or have low income, you qualify for a free cell phone with monthly talk, text, and data through Lifeline. Employers and parole need a way to reach you.
Helpful Tips If You Haven't Used Computers or Smartphones in a Long Time
- Free Internet & Computers: Every public library in Illinois offers free computer use, free Wi-Fi, and staff who can help you print out forms.
- Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Librarians, case managers, and clinic intake coordinators are there to assist you. Tell them: "I just got released and need help finding housing or a phone."
- Keep Your Papers in a Folder: Carry a waterproof folder or envelope with your discharge papers, Social Security card, birth certificate, and parole documents everywhere you go. Do not lose them.
- Scam Warning: Never pay someone who promises they can "clear your record overnight" or "guarantee you a job for a fee." Legitimate reentry programs are 100% free.