Service providers and women who are preparing to leave prison or have recently returned to the community after incarceration can contact WPA and get answers to their questions about WPA services and the range of services available in New York City to help women who have criminal justice histories. Screening for service need and eligibility is conducted in person, by letter, or by telephone. During a screening, WPA staff ask a series of questions about a woman’s needs and resources, and, based on her responses, connect her with further assistance at WPA or elsewhere.

Regardless of her eventual destination for services, a woman seeking our assistance is invited to a weekly Orientation session for women recently released from prison or jail. Staff and trained peers facilitate sessions and provide information about WPA services, what to expect when navigating the City’s public and private safety net services, and resources in the community that can help address urgent needs such as housing, hunger, and needs for clothing and money. The orientation introduces women to WPA’s services and other public services including the bus and subway transportation networks, the emergency shelter system, emergency income, and medical assistance. Staff lead women through an inventory of documentation that can be used to prove identity and eligibility for services and provide practical instruction on how to get replacement birth certificates or social security cards. A light snack is served at the orientation and women leave the session with a personal care/hygiene kit, transportation fare and a folder of practical tips on how to navigate the offices and streets of New York City. The majority of women return to WPA for a follow-up appointment with a Case Manager.

For further information about Screening and Orientation, please contact:
Shinese Wheat
Community Linkage Unit Coordinator
Phone: 718-637-6813
Email: swheat AT wpaonline DOT org