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A WOMAN’S WELCOME HOME GUIDE FOR THE PHOENIX, AZ AREA

This guide is for you to use to plan for your release and to have as a reference after your release. It includes addresses, phone numbers, and web sites that you can use to find out about programs and other help available after your release. You may want to ask a friend, family member, or correctional staff to help you find the information you need if you do not have phone or internet access. Keep in mind that this guide does not include all of the services available. What is available in one area may be different from what is available in another, so be sure to check with local resources to learn about services in your area.

While you are in prison, contact your assigned Correctional Officer III or IV for assistance in planning for your release. Your assigned Correctional Officer III or IV will refer you to the appropriate correctional programs that will prepare you for release and reintegration into the community. You want to be prepared for life outside of prison once you are released, so take advantage of the opportunities available to you.

Begin thinking about what specifically you will need upon release.

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Ask yourself these kinds of questions:

• Will I need housing? • Will I need medical care, mental health care, or substance abuse

treatment? • Do I need to learn new job skills? • Do I have any other legal issues, such as overdue child support? • How do I restart my VA checks or Supplemental Security Income

(SSI)? Make a list of your needs. Remember that this is just a tool to help you get organized. A sample list might look like this:

• ‰ I need a place to live. • ‰ I need a job. • ‰ I need clothing to wear to work. • ‰ I want to get addictions treatment. • ‰ I owe child support.

Think about your list as you read through this guide. Who do you think can help you with each of your needs? Is there one organization that may be able to work with you, on many different things, or do you need to contact several agencies? Keep track of the steps you take, including the dates and names of people you contact for information or assistance. Although this guide provides national and state addresses for many organizations, we recommend you check your phone book for local, county, and state agencies that know what help is available in your area.

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When writing a letter to request information, be clear. Keep your letter short, to the point, and write legibly. Include the following information:

• Your name and other information that identifies (e.g., your inmate

number, mailing address, and if writing to the VA, your date of birth, Social Security number, and military branch & dates of service)

• A brief statement about your current situation.

• Your specific request.

• What you have done so far (Example: I have written to __________organization and they suggested I contact you).

• Any restrictions for mailings (Example: Mail with staples or paper clips will not be accepted by my prison facility).

When contacting an agency for help by mail, email or phone, be persistent and polite in order to get results.

Ask questions if information is not clear to you. Remember that many organizations are staffed by volunteers who are eager to help, but may not have the answers you are looking for. If someone cannot help you, ask about who can.

This guide includes web addresses, when available. If computer access is not available at your facility, you can get internet access and obtain other resources through you local public library after release.

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Computer access may also be provided at WorkForce Development Council member locations, and Employment Security Department offices (referred to as Job Service Centers or Unemployment Offices).

This section includes resources that can help you get back on your feet. Remember to check the phone book for local, county, and state agencies that know what services are available in the area to assist you. Some organizations may have waiting lists, require an interview, or have specific rules about whom they serve. It is best if you start asking about services and requirements now, so that you will be prepared when you are released. You may even ask if your name can be put on a waiting list when you get closer to your release date.

TOLL-FREE NUMBERS

Crisis and other toll-free numbers are often listed in the front cover or first few pages of the phone book. You may also want to check under "Social Services" in the blue or yellow pages for hotlines and local numbers. Many states now also have a free social service resource directory, which can be accessed by dialing “2-1-1” from any telephone within the state.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - A 24-hour hotline that will immediately connect callers to VA suicide prevention and mental health service professionals: 1-800-273-TALK (8255), press “1” for Veteran Focus on Recovery Helpline - A 24-hour national alcohol and drug abuse addiction and treatment hotline: 1-800-888-9383

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WHERE TO START Check the local phone book yellow pages under "Homeless" or "Social Service Organizations" for a list of many local organizations that offer different services, which may include clothing, public transportation tokens, emergency shelter, and more.

You may need to contact several agencies to find all the services you need. Services provided by government agencies are listed in the blue pages found near the front of the phone book.

Check with your local Public Assistance Office to find out what programs are available and what their guidelines are.

We have included some guidance below, but local organizations are your best resources. Remember, it never hurts to ask!

National Coalition for the Homeless (www.nationalcoalitionhomeless.org) has a directory of shelters and homeless assistance programs online. This does not list every program in the country, so be sure to check your phone book for local programs. The following are those listed for the State of Arizona:

Directory of Local Homeless Service Organizations

• Central AZ Shelter Services: (Phoenix) 1209 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85007; 602-258-5951

• Church on the Street: (Tucson) 2551 W. Orange Grove Rd., Tucson, AZ 85741

• Information & Referral Services, Inc.: (Tucson area) 3130 N. Dodge Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85716 520-325-3474 or 800-362-3474; www.azinfo.org

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• Community Information & Referral Services: (Central & Northern Arizona) 2200 N Central Ave, Ste 601, Phoenix, Arizona 85004

• 24 Hour HELP LINE: 602-263-8856 or 1-800-352-3792 Directory of Homeless & Housing Advocacy Coalitions The following is a list of Homeless and Housing Advocacy Coalitions for the State of Arizona. Not all of these coalitions provide direct services, but they may be able to tell you about local programs or services. Arizona Coalition to End Homelessness 2700 N. 3rd Street, Suite 2011 Phoenix, AZ 85004 602-340-9393 www.azceh.org Tucson Planning Council for the Homeless 3130 N. Dodge Blvd. Tucson, AZ 85716 520-917-2384 www.tpch.org Primavera Foundation 702 S. 6th Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701 520-547-3341

HOUSING It is important to know that you have a place to go when released. The first step in returning to the community is finding a place to stay. This section includes ways to locate emergency shelter, transitional programs, and permanent housing assistance. Transitional or temporary housing can serve as a step toward independent living upon your release. However, there are often waiting lists for housing assistance programs, so you should ask about applying as early as possible.

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If you are released and find yourself homeless, emergency assistance is usually available. Call Arizona’s Community Information & Referral Line for information about local shelters, transitional housing and services for the homeless: dial 2-1-1 from any phone in Arizona. Arizona 2-1-1 has information about services for: food, shelter, rent assistance, utility bill assistance, counseling, child care, after-school programs, senior services, disaster relief, and many other community resources. ALSO, look in the phone book yellow pages under “Social Service Organizations” for local shelters or organizations that may be able to help. Look in the phone book blue pages under local, city, or county government Department of Social Services or "Human Services" or call the County Commissioner’s Office for information about local low-income housing coalitions or homeless advocacy groups who may know what is available.

Emergency and Transitional Housing

To find a listing of homeless services nationwide, go to the website of the Department of Housing and Urban Development at www.hud.gov/homeless

Tucson Area Emergency Shelter Resources:

Primavera Shelter: Must call for bed reservation at 9:00 a.m. each morning - 520-623-4300. (ID & TB results required)

Gospel Rescue Mission: First come, first serve walk-ins between 3 - 5 p.m. daily.

Men’s Shelter, 312 W. 28th St. Tucson, AZ 85713.

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Women’s Shelter, 1130 W. Miracle Mile, Tucson, AZ 85705. Telephone number to both shelters: 520-740-1501.

Salvation Army Hospitality House: First come, first served walk-ins between 3 - 5 p.m. daily. 1021 N. 11th Ave, Tucson, AZ - 520-622-5411. (ID & TB results required)

Prescott Area Emergency Shelter Resources: Project Aware Shelter: 215 1/2 Leroux St., Prescott, AZ 86301 928-778-7744 For Emergency and Transitional Living Phoenix Area Resources, call the Community Information & Referral Services 24 Hour HELP LINE (Phoenix area) 602-263-8856 or 1-800-352-3792 Tucson Area Transitional Living Resources: Southern Arizona VA Healthcare System: 1-800-470-8262 Comin' Home: 520-322-6980 Esperanza En Escalante: 520-571-8294 Prescott Transitional Living Resources: U.S. Vets: 500 N. Hwy 89, Prescott, AZ 86313 928-717-7581 To find a list of emergency shelters for men, women and families in every state, check the Department of Housing and Urban Development online at www.hud.gov/homeless/hmlsagen.cfm. Long-term or Permanent Housing Public housing waiting lists can be long, but the length of time can vary from place to place.

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Even if you are not sure where you want to live yet, apply to get on the waiting list so that you have as many options as possible. To learn how to apply, contact the local housing authority listed in the phone book blue pages under "Local Government, Public Housing Authority ".

FINDING & KEEPING A JOB Finding a job may be hard and can seem overwhelming, but it is possible and very important!

When released you may find that you are completely starting over.

You should ask about job counseling and training while incarcerated so you are prepared to work when released. DO NOT wait until you get out to start thinking about what you will do.

Start planning now! Arizona has One-Stop Service Centers where customers can access a broad range of employment-related and training services. Comprehensive Centers have programs such as Employment & Training, Adult Education, Postsecondary Vocational Education, Native American Programs, and others. Affiliate Sites/Satellite Locations have many of these programs and information about programs not located at the Affiliate/Satellite Sites. To find a One-Stop Service Center near you, visit your nearby Department of Economic Security office (listed in the phone book blue pages under "State Government, Department of Economic Security,") or go to www.azdes.gov.

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Arizona Workforce Connections partners with workforce development agencies to provide businesses and job seekers with comprehensive and streamlined services. Partners include the Arizona Department of Commerce, Arizona Department of Economic Security, Arizona Department of Education, and multiple other workforce programs. They also offer information to assist ex-offenders with post-release employment. To find an Arizona Workforce Connections location, near you, look in the yellow pages, dial 2-1-1 or 4-1-1 for information, or go to www.arizonaworkforceconnection.gov.

Arizona Women's Education & Employment (AWEE) provides career planning and guidance, job training, educational workshops, financial supports and social services for women AND men in Maricopa County and Yavapai County. For more information, you can write to AWEE at 640 N. 1st Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85003. You can also contact them and find more information at www.awee.org or (602) 223-4333.

Arizona Opportunities Industrialization Center (Arizona OIC) is a non-profit organization that is a part of a nationwide network of comprehensive employment training programs. Some of the services that they offer include: pre-employment training courses, Adult Basic Education, office skills training, counseling services, and job placement services. To apply for services or obtain more information, they may be reached at: Arizona OIC, 39 East Jackson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004; (602) 254-5081.

Pima County Workforce Development works in conjunction with other agencies, such as Jackson Employment Center, in Tucson, to administer the Homeless Veteran's Reintegration Project (HVRP). This assists eligible Veterans by providing employment and training services to

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homeless Veterans to help them get back into the workforce. This program specifically assists Veterans with job search preparation, vocational counseling, occupational skills training, on-the-job training, trade skills certification and licensing, and job placement assistance and referral to supportive services. To find out if you may be eligible and how to access HVRP contact Jackson Employment Center at 520-838-3300, or 300 E. 26th St., Tucson, AZ 85713, Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm. Santran Bus Route #23.

The VA's Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment services help Veterans with service-connected disabilities by providing job training and counseling to those who have an employment handicap. Services include help finding a job, on-the-job training, job development, and vocational training. If you are not eligible for these services, a VA counselor may help you find other options, goals, or programs. Contact your VA Regional Office (VARO) at 1-800-827-1000, or go to www.vba.va.gov/locations.

The State of Arizona has a Vocational Rehabilitation program that helps people with disabilities find and keep jobs. Apply for these services immediately after your release. Look in the phone book blue pages under "Department of Economic Security" then "Vocational Rehabilitation,” or search the internet for "Vocational Rehabilitation" in your state. If ineligible for Veteran's benefits, free or low-cost health care may be available from the following sources:

Department of Economic Security (DES) can tell you where to find health care facilities for the homeless. Check the phone book blue pages under local, city, or county government for the number. National Health Care for the Homeless Council has a list of health care providers working with homeless people across the nation. For a list of providers in your state, go to www.nhchc.org. Free clinics are run by many local organizations and communities. Look in the phone book blue pages under "Public Health" to contact local government office for clinics in your area. You can also find out more

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about free clinic through your nearest homeless shelter. If not eligible for Veterans' benefits, the following sources may be able to tell you where you can go to get help:

The Department of Health and Human Services Drug and Alcohol Treatment Referral Routing Service can refer you to local programs. Call 1-800-662-4357.

National Alliance for the Mentally Ill lists community mental health services providers at: www.nami.org, or call 1-800-950-6264.

National Mental Health Association offers support groups, rehabilitation, socialization, and housing services through 340 community organizations located across the country. Call 1-800-969-NMHA, or find a local office online at www.nmha.org.

FINANCIAL HELP

If you are unemployed with little or no income, you may be able to get food stamps. A person may normally qualify for $50 to $140 worth of food stamps per month. Call the toll free information number at 1-800-221-5689, or find a list of food stamp hotlines for each state at www.fns.usda.gov/fsp/contact_info/hotlines.htm. You can also contact the local Department of Human Services, many drop-in shelters, or legal aid services to ask for an application.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits can be applied for before your release, even though you won't receive the benefits until after you are released. Food Stamps can be applied for together with SSI. Normally, it takes about three months to review an application, so apply well before your release date. It is best to get help filling out the application. For detailed information or assistance, call 1-800- 772-1213, call or your local social security administration office listed in the phone book blue pages,

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or go to: http://www.ssa.gov/notices/supplemental-security-income/. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has a program called Emergency Food and Shelter Program to help prevent homelessness. Contact the local Office of the Mayor or United Way to ask who awards this money in your area and what the rules are.

LEGAL HELP The American Bar Association has a web site with guidelines about free legal services and links to directories of legal aid offices and pro-bono programs. Go to: www.abanet.org Legal Services or Legal Aid offices have staff lawyers to provide free legal help to poor clients. The lawyers are usually experts in the types of problems that poor clients often have. Look in the yellow pages for a local Legal Aid office or check online for the program, nearest you. Pine Tree Legal Assistance has an online list of organizations across the nation that provides free legal help to clients who qualify. Go to: www.ptla.org/links/services.htm.

Lawyers in private practice sometimes volunteer in "pro-bono" programs to take cases for poor clients free of charge. Check the yellow pages to contact your Local Bar Association to learn if there is a pro-bono program in your community, or go to www.abanet.org/barserv/stlobar.html.

WOMEN VETERANS Most VA Medical Centers and readjustment offices have a designated Women Veterans Coordinator to assist women Veterans in accessing VA benefit programs and healthcare services. Call 1-877-222-8387 to or go to www.visn18.med.va.gov, to find the medical center nearest you.

GENERAL COMMUNITY SERVICE GUIDE RENT/MORTGAGE/UTILITIES ASSISTANCE

• City of Phoenix Housing: 830 E. Jefferson (602) 534- 2142 • Community Housing: 609 N. 9th St. (602) 253-6905 • Lutheran Social Ministry (602) 271-0828 • Valley Christian: 1326 W. Hadley St. (602) 258-5163

HOUSING RESOURCES:

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• St. Vincent DePaul 602 261-6878 • Salvation Army Shelters 602 267-4130NOVA 602 528-0758 • Maricopa Cty. Homeless Hotline 602 263-8900 • Home Base 602 254-7777 • Homeward Bound 602 263-7654 • Homeless Hotline 602 256-2219 • Family Services 602 267-4122 • Domestic Violence Emergency Shelter 602 263-8900 or 1-800-799-7739

(Emergency Hours: 602 266-6956) Phoenix Single Women's Shelters

• Andre House: 1002 W. Polk (602) 252-9023 • CASS: 1209 W. Madison (602) 256-6945 • Church on the Street: 24th St. & Filmore (602) 275-2920 • Gift of Mary: 1414 S. 17th Avenue (602) 254-8424 • Maggie's Place: (602) 257-4648 • Phoenix Rescue Mission: 1801 S. 35th Avenue (602) 233-2647 • U.M.O.M.: 3320 E. Van Buren St. (602) 275-4533

Phoenix Area Family Shelters • The Bridge: 2001 W. Northern Avenue (602) 589-5556 • Gift of Mary: 1414 S. 17th Avenue (602) 254-8424 • Homeward Bound: 29 W. Thomas (602) 263-7654 • Interfaith (602) 294-0222 • Labor's Community: 5818 N. 7th St. (602) 263-5741 • La Mesita: 2254 W. Main Street (Mesa) (480) 834-8723 • Salvation Army: 2707 E. Van Buren (602) 267-4130 • Save the Family: 450 W. 4th Pl #202 (Mesa) (480) 898-0228 • U.M.O.M. 3320 E. Van Buren (602) 275-4533 • Vista Colina: 1050 W. Mountain View (602) 944-0960 • YWCA: 755 E. Wiletta (602) 268-0990

Youth and Children's Shelters • Crisis Nursery (602) 273-7364 • East Valley Child Crisis Center (480) 969-2308 • Home Base: 931 E. Devonshire Avenue (602) 254-7777

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• Tumbleweed: 4829 N. 37th Avenue (602) 841-5799 Domestic Violence Shelters

• Autumn House (480) 835-5555 • Chrysallis (602) 244-4999 • De Colores (602) 269-1515 • Faith House (623) 939-6798 • My Sister's Place (480) 821-1024 • New Life (623) 932-4404 • Salvation Army/Elm House (602) 267-4111 • Sojourner Center (602) 244-0089

Other Shelters • La Posada: 7045 S. Montezuma (602) 243-9711 • Ozanam Manor: 1730 E. Monroe (602) 495-3050 • Phoenix Shanti: 7000 N. Central Avenue (602) 279-0008

Halfway Houses (not operated by the State Dept. of Corrections)

• Alice's Wonderland: 24 S. Udall (Mesa) (480) 962-8471 • Calvary Rehab: 720 E. Montebello (602) 279-1468 • Casa de Amigas: 1648 W. Colter (602) 265-9987 • Corazon: 3639 W. Lincoln St. (602) 233-9747 • Crossroads for Men: 1845 E. Ocotillo (602) 279-2585 • Dana Center: 731 W. Dana Avenue (480) 461-1033 • Destiny Sober Living: 5306 N. 17th Ave. (602) 249-6675 • Guest House: 8910 W. Monroe St. (602) 934-0298 • Hope House: 316 N. 11th Way (602) 254-5434 • Living Faith: 7514 W. Mitchell (602) 772-7767 • NOVA/Maverick: 7022 N 48th Avenue (602) 931-5810 • Pelms House: 11773 N. 91st Ave (602) 979-6571 • Progress Valley: 4430 N. 23rd Avenue (602) 274-5424 • Reborn: 2546 W. Orangewood (602) 433-2382 • Sand Dollar: 5049 W. Campbell (623) 247-7877 • The Solution: 4210 N. Longview (602) 277-7527 • SOS Fellowship: 650 N. 6th Ave. (602) 252-4205

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• Steps House: 7155 N. 66th Dr/Ste 102 (623) 939-1566 • Teen Challenge: 1515 W. Grand Ave. (602) 271-4084 • Teen Outreach: 5809 S. 5th St. (602) 323-0226

Chemical Dependency Halfway Houses • Another Chance: 1201 W. Madison (602) 256-6933 • Ebony House: 6222 S. 13th St. (602) 276-4288 • LARC: 2770 E. Van Buren (602) 273-9999Phx. Indian • Center: 2601 N. 3rd St. (602) 263-1017 • Phx. Rescue Mission: 1801 S. 35th Ave. (602) 233-3000 • Project Heart: 1112 E. Washington (602) 256-2688

FOOD OR FOOD BOXES • Andre House 602 257-4390 • Ministry to the Incarcerated & their Families 602 261-6836 • St. Vincent DePaul 602 254-3338 • Interfaith: 743 W. Buchanan St. (602) 254-7450 • Lutheran Social Ministries: (602) 271-0828 • Salvation Army/Mesa (480) 834-7777

MEALS • Andre House: P.M.: 213 S. 11th Avenue (602) 255-0580 • Chris Becker: P.M. 9227 N. 10th Avenue (602) 944-0139 • Church on the Street: 902 E. McKinley (602) 254-8302 • Paz P.M.: 424 W. Broadway/Mesa (480) 464- • 2370Phoenix Rescue Mission: 1801 S. 35th Avenue (602) 233-0300 • St. Vincent de Paul (lunch): 119 S. 9th Avenue (602) 495-3065 • St. Vincent de Paul (lunch): 67 W. Broadway/Mesa (480) 649-0081

FOOD STAMPS • Arizona Dept. of Economic Security (DES) : 215 E. McDowell

(602) 495-1308 OFFICIAL RECORDS/IDENTIFICATION

• Birth Certificate 602 255-3260 • Draft Registration 602 267-2343 • Driver's License/State ID Card 602 255-0072

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• Immigration 602 258-4353 • Social Security Administration 602 772-1213 • Voter Registration 602 506-1511

EDUCATION • Alternative Schools 1-800-654-8713 • Az. Dept. of Education 602 542-4361 • Frank Gordon Learning Center/Adult Probationers 602 372-

5509 • (Free GED Preparation and other services) • Maricopa County Skills Center 602 238-4300

EMPLOYMENT/VOCATIONAL TRAINING • Goodwill Industries 602 254-2222 • Job Corp 602 254-5921 • Job Info Hot Line 602 506-3329 • Maricopa Skill Center 602 238-4300 • St. Joseph's The Worker 602 257-4390 • Arizona State Vocational Rehab 602 212-0068 or 602 247-3304 • Family Service Agency (602) 252-0918 • Tetras Program (602) 685-9703

(This agency has grant money from the federal government to provide vocational training and employment assistance specifically to ex-offenders. They also conduct periodic workshops in Phoenix and Mesa to assist ex-offenders with interview skills, resume-writing, etc. They maintain an active database of employers who will hire ex-offenders.

• Phoenix City Job Line 602 534-5627 • Newspaper Want Ads 480 464-9669 • City of Phoenix Clear Path 602 495-5717 • Arizona Call-A-Teen 602 252-7771, ex. 146

SOCIAL SERVICE/HELP LINES/SUPPORT GROUPS To find out if you are eligible for any or a particular social service, visit this web site: www.arizonaselfhelp.org The above site is sponsored by the Arizona Community Action Association and allows individuals to overcome barriers to the social

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service system by allowing them to privately and confidentially check their eligibility before beginning the paperwork application process.

RE-INTEGRATION SERVICES FOR EX-OFFENDERS Try: Family Services Agency/Community Reintegration for Ex-Offenders (602) 252-0918 Grandparents Raising Kids Can Obtain Assistance: Beatitudes Center DOAR, a non-profit interfaith organization, may pay for all or part of registration fees for activities or camps that are enriching for grandchildren while providing a welcome "break" for grandparents. To receive assistance, grandparents must be able to demonstrate that they are raising their grandchildren. Some additional free services are available. These include support groups, family activities, seminars and legal services. Call (602) 274-5022 to request assistance. The program will serve those grandparents whose child is in prison if they are taking care of grandchildren, but we are quite certain that the "legal services" provided to NOT include criminal appeals or challenges to the conviction of one's child. OTHER RESOURCES: • Adult Children of Alcoholics 602 241-6760 • Value Options 602 914-5800 • Adult Protective Services 1-877-767-2385 • Al Anon 602 249-1257 • Alcoholics Anonymous 602 264-1341 • Child Protective Services 602 530-1800 • Cocaine Anonymous 602 279-3838 • DES Family Assistance 602 495-1308 • Friendly House 602 257-1870 • Help Hotline 602 273-0786 • Narcotics Anonymous 602 784-4004 • Parents Anonymous 602 248-0428

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TRANSPORTATION • Dial-A-Ride 602 253-4000 • Safe Ride 1-800-797-7433 • Tickets to Jobs 602 534-1250 • Work Links 602 506-3995 • Valley Metro Bus Service 602 253-5000

HEALTH • AHCCCS Indigent Medical 602 275-3230 or 1-800-654-8713 • AIDS Center 1-800-342-2437 • Lions Club Eye Care 602 267-7573 • Family Services 480 545-9626 • Kids Care 1-877-764-5437 • Maricopa Cty. Health Dept. 602 506-6900 • Mental Health Association 480 994-4407 • Tattoo Removal 602 262-7370 (6862) • X-TATOO (Removal) (602) 534-3121 • Urgent Care 602 222-0444 • Poison Control 1-800-362-0101

• Maricopa County Health Consumer Organization - Arizona State Monthly

Report on the Spread of Infectious Diseases: www.azdhs.gov/phs/oids (click on "data and statistics")

• To read about an evaluation of the new Medicare Prescription Drug Plan: www.consumersunion.org

• To read information from the Centers for Disease Control: www.cdc.gov • To read information from the National Institute of Health: www.nih.gov • To contact the Arizona Dental Board: www.axdentalboard.org • To verify the license of a nurse, or complaints:

www.azbn.org/OnlineVerification.asp To check the status of a licensed psychologist and actions taken against them: www.psychboard.az.gov

• To examine how hospitals are rated, contact the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations: www.jcaho.org

• To check on the status of an Arizona nursing home, day care center or hospital, contact the Arizona State Health Department: www.azdhs.gov/als (Click on "facility search" to check the license status of an institution)

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• To locate a doctor or other health care professional, contact Arizona Doc Finder: www.docfinder.state.az.us (obtain status of any disciplinary actions or complaints against them)

LEGAL OR ADVOCACY SERVICES

• Middle Ground Prison Reform 480 966-8116 • Community Legal Services 602 258-3434 • Restoration of Civil Rights (Maricopa Cty. convictions: 602 506-0547) Sex

Offender Registration 602 256-1070 • Obtain Copies of Maricopa Cty. Court Papers 602 506-1155 • Lawyer Referral 602 257-4434 • Fair Housing 480 644-3660

• Maricopa County Jain Info Line (602) 256-0322 • St. Vincent de Paul Ministry to the Incarcerated (602) 261-6836

To find out how to go about filing a public records request/Freedom of Information request with a government agency: go to links.azcentral.com (you can download a form from that site)

FINANCIAL ISSUES • Income Tax/Tax Assistance 1-800-829-1040 • Social Security Income 1-800-772-1213 • Consumer Credit Counseling 602 246-2227

In Maricopa County, you can call Community Information & Referral for other referrals or review a copy of their multi-page Resource Directory at any public library. The telephone is: 602 263-8856. Outside the county, call 1-800-352-3792. SPECIAL EMPLOYMENT HELP FOR SEX OFFENDERS Try: Focus Employment Services, 2345 E. Thomas Road, Phoenix. Call (602) 312-1045 and ask for Karen Gardner. This agency also helps all ex-offenders with employment assignments.

SPECIAL SERVICES FOR WOMEN Our Common Welfare (OCW), located in Mesa at 135 N. Country Club, Mesa, Az. 85201. Telephone: (480) 733-2688. Offers community support for people in recovery. Offers housing referrals, dental workshops, leadership training, emotional support and a recreation club. Also offers recovery mentoring for previously incarcerated women and some other services.

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Women's Resource Center/Fresh Start Mentoring Services: Call 602 262-8494. Provides workshops on communication, financial affairs, business management, legal consulting on divorce and domestic issues, self-esteem, personal growth and relationships, life skills, etc. Small fees for some workshops. Free child care provided while attending workshops.

SPECIAL SERVICES FOR AT-RISK TEENS Project Challenge (480) 988-4100, ext 228;

(This is a voluntary residential program operated by the Arizona National Guard. It teaches life and job skills, physical fitness, responsible citizenship, and assists "cadets" to obtain a GED. The residential program is five-months in length, but the key to this program's success seems to be the post-program mentoring that assists each graduate after they leave by keeping them on track with plans.

OTHER TYPES OF ASSISTANCE:

OLD MASTER TRADE SCHOOL, 411 S. Plumer Avenue, Tucson, Arizona 85719, will teach various trades, and ex-offenders are welcome to attend. Bilingual (Spanish) classes are available, and tools are available upon completion of the program. Financial plans are available to those who qualify. The telephone is: (520) 791-2002 or Call Toll-free at 1-877-791-2005.

More Job Training: St. Mary's Food Bank Community Kitchen has been operating a free 14-week basic culinary training program for individuals who want to learn how to cook, and also learn how to obtain and keep a job. They strive to teach life skills as well as culinary dishes. They assist with job placement, and new classes begin every 14 weeks. They will accept persons with felony convictions with the exception of those convicted of sex crimes or assaults with weapons. Call (602) 322-0161, ext.1121 for information. They are located at 1818 South 16th Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85034.

Department of Economic Security (DES): For ex-offenders, this agency handles employment opportunities (Job Service Divn.), and manages the Arizona Workforce Connection (see specific telephone numbers for Workforce Connection in above section on Employment/Job Training). The DES also manages the Job Tax Credit Program, which gives an employer a tax credit for hiring an ex-offender. Paperwork for this program can be obtained from a local DES office. There are dozens of DES offices throughout the state and far too many to list individually. Look in the telephone directory for the address and telephone of the nearest office in your town or county or call the office listed above for the location nearest you.

In addition to the above services, DES administers the Federal Bonding Program, which provides a bond of up to $5,000 to employers wishing to hire an ex-offender in a job that requires bonding. The applicant must have an actual job offer for full-time employment in order to qualify. Contact 602 495-1861, x. 1002 for this service only.

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DES also offers a Rehabilitation Services Program which includes services such as job coaching, computer training, job retention and coaching techniques, etc. This division specializes in vocational rehab for those with blindness or other visual impairments. Call 602 269-5731, ext. 216 for more information.

Franciscan Renewal Center Job Support Group: Call 480 862-0082 for info. They have fee-based coaching, counseling and training. Will work with those who want career coaching, sales or marketing training and business coaching.

Pima County Community College District: Has a program called "Inmate Transition/Re-entry." Call 520 574-0024, ext. 4328. Offers assistance for inmates transitioning back to community.

Paz de Cristo Community Center: Call 480 464-2370. Provides assistance to low income and homeless people in the East Valley/Mesa-Tempe area. Serves evening meals and distributes food boxes; has weekly distribution of hygiene products. Also provides job training and resume writing and interviewing skill training.

Tetra Services: Call 602 685-9703; Linda Rusay. Serves people w/ disabilities. Must have a physical or mental barrier to employment to qualify for assistance. Ask for the person who administers"Reintegration Services to Ex-offenders." Also, visit www.awee.org, which is the Arizona Women's Education & Employment web site. Job Path, Inc.: Call 520 324-0402 in Tucson. This is an employment training program working with individuals with criminal records. This non-profit educates community employers on the advantages of hiring persons with criminal histories. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Criminal Record Repository: Call 602 223-2229 to find out how you can obtain a copy of your Arizona "rap" sheet and learn about the possibility of sealing the record, expunging it or other legal avenues for relief. Note: only an attorney representing you or the personal individual can seek his/her own record. You may not examine the record of another person, including one for a spouse or child, unless you are an attorney representing that person.

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Child Support • Clerk of Superior Court of Maricopa County

Support Services Office 201 W. Jefferson St. Phoenix, AZ 85006 (602) 506-1900 www.familysupportcenter.com

• Fresh Start Women’s Resource Center • Family Law Services

1130 E. McDowell Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85006 (602) 252-8494 www.wehelpwomen.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Domestic Violence

• Boys Town National Hotline 1 (800) 448-3000 or 1 (800) 448-1833/TTY • Cassie’s House (602) 936-7446 • Catholic Charities Community Services (602) 285-1999 http://www.catholiccharitiesaz.org • Chrysalis (North Phoenix) (602) 944-4999 • Crisis Nursery Shelter (Children only) (602) 273-7363/7364 • DeColores (North Phoenix) (602) 269-1515 • Maricopa County Attorney Victim Witness (602) 506-8522 • Phoenix City Prosecutor Victim Witness Program (602) 261-8192 • Victim Rights and Witness Assistance Program (602) 542-4911 • Salvation Army’s Elim House (602) 267-4111 or 1-888-267-0197 • Sojourner (Central Phoenix) (602) 244-0089

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Education/GED

• Arizona Department of Education, Adult Education Services (Multiple preparation/testing sites available) (602) 258-2410 www.azed.gov/adult-ed/

• Rio Salado College Adult Basic Education Transition Program (480) 377-4064 www.riosalado.edu/programs/abe/Pages/transition.aspx

• Glendale Community College 6000 W. Olive Ave. Glendale, AZ 85302 (602) 347-6974 • Orangewood Nazarene Church Learning Center 7510 N. 27th Ave. Phoenix, AZ (602) 347-

6974 • Paradise Valley Community College 18401 N. 32nd St. Phoenix, AZ (480) 517-8110 • Phoenix Public Library 1221 N. Central Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85004 (480) 377-4050 • Rio Salado Ann Ott Adult Learning Center 1801 S. 12th St. Phoenix, AZ (602) 377-4300 • Rio Salado College at 7th Ave 619 N. 7th Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85007 (480) 377-4050

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Family Services

• Arizona Children Association - 1625 N. 39th Ave. Phoenix, AZ (602) 233-0017 www.arizonaschildren.org/

• Central Phoenix Family Services Center - 200 W. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ (602) 534-1250 http://phoenix.gov/citzasst/famcentr.html

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• Family Service Agency - 1430 N. 2nd St. Phoenix, AZ (602) 252-0918 www.fsaphoenix.org/ • Family Support Resources - 4244 W. Brown St. Phoenix, AZ (623) 939-8272

www.fsrfamily.com • Friendly House - 802 S. 1st Ave. Phoenix, AZ (602) 257-1870 www.friendlyhouse.org/ • Jewish Family & Children’s Services - 4747 N. 7th St. Phoenix, AZ (602) 279-7655

www.jfcsarizona.com/ • Lincoln Family Downtown YMCA - 350 N. 1st Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85003 (602) 257-5138 • Make a Wish Foundation-America - 3550 N. Central Ave. Phoenix, AZ (602) 279-9474

www.wish.org/about • Maricopa Family Support - 201 W. Jefferson St. Phoenix, AZ (602) 506-3762

www.familysupportcenter.com • Maricopa Youth Services-Training - 234 N. Central Ave. Phoenix, AZ (602) 506-5911

www.maricopa.gov/Default.aspx • Phoenix Indian Center - 4520 N. Central Ave. Phoenix, AZ (602) 263-1017

www.phxindcenter.org/ • Salvation Army Family Services - 1625 S. Central Ave. Phoenix, AZ (602) 258-4161

www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.ns f • Sunnyslope Family Services Center - 914 W. Hatcher Rd. Phoenix, AZ (602) 495-5229

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Food, Hot Meals • Andre House for the Homeless - 213 S. 11th Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85007 (602)

252-9023 www.andrehouse.org • Church on the Street (7 days after services 7-8:30) 902 E. McKinley Phoenix,

AZ (602) 252- 7444 www.cots.com • Society for St. Vincent de Paul www.stvincentdepaul.net 1. 420 W. Watkins Rd. (Families only M-F / 5-6pm) Phoenix, AZ 85003 (602) 266-

4673 2. 119 S. 9th Ave. (7 days / 11-12:45) Phoenix, AZ (602) 495-3065 3. 9277 N. 10th Ave. (7 days / 5:30-6:30) Phoenix, AZ (602) 944-0139 4. 67 W. Broadway Rd. (7 days / 9:30-12:30) Phoenix, AZ (480) 649-0081

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Using This Guide ‰ ‰ Make a list of your needs. ‰ Make a list of who may be able to help you. ‰ Write letters and/or contact organizations by phone or email. ‰ Write down the steps you take so that you do not repeat them.