Locked Out of Housing: The Unseen Struggles of Reentry and Recovery

From what I’ve seen and experienced, the housing system is not built for people in reentry or recovery. Too often, individuals who have done the hard work—completing programs, turning their lives around—find themselves locked out simply because of their past. Once someone finishes a reentry or recovery program, the next logical step is to rebuild stability, and a huge part of that is securing housing. But in reality, the challenges don’t end when the program does. High application fees, strict background checks, and the stigma tied to a criminal record or past eviction make it nearly impossible for many to secure a place to live. Now, imagine this: You’ve changed your life, but every door you knock on is slammed shut. Landlords see your history, not the work you’ve put in to move forward. Even if you have a job and the money for rent, the fact that you’ve been incarcerated or in recovery can disqualify you before you even get a chance to explain. The Ripple Effect Housing instability creates a domino effect. Without a safe, stable place to live, the risk of falling back into old patterns increases. Stress leads to poor decisions. A person might couch-hop, fall into toxic environments, or return to survival tactics that don’t align with their new path. This is why it’s so important to understand the deeper layers of reentry and recovery. It’s not just about staying clean or avoiding crime—it’s about having the resources and support to sustain a new way of life. Breaking Barriers, One Step at a Time I know firsthand how discouraging this process can be. But I also know that real change happens when we work together to break these barriers. For those in reentry or recovery, persistence is key. Keep pushing, keep advocating for yourself, and don’t let the system convince you that your past defines you. For those who don’t face these struggles, I challenge you to look beyond the surface. Understand that people trying to rebuild their lives aren’t asking for a handout—they’re just asking for a fair shot. At the end of the day, stable housing isn’t just about having a roof over your head. It’s about dignity, opportunity, and a real chance at a fresh start. Everyone deserves that.