RE-ENTRY: Another suggestion

For months, I have followed the writing and opinions of the County Commissioners and Hayden officials and neighbors regarding the Re-Entry Center that has been proposed to be located in Hayden. Ideas on both sides have been reasonable and well thought out and seem to have merit. But my thoughts differ from both of them.

I have been and am a strong supporter for such recovery homes, but do not believe one would do well in Hayden. Since there has been more than 80% recidivism in North Idaho, some have argued that being close to home, family and community would help addicts and former felons to reestablish their lives. Both are loving, charitable thoughts but my experience in the field tells me that when ex-offenders are released back into the areas where they got “sick,” they become comfortable, and the comfort zone has a life of its own.

It is often more productive to release them in unfamiliar areas where they can build new lives (not rebuild old lives) independent of former associations. I do not believe this is a good fit for Hayden.

When families and children are involved, they desperately need the family reunited; but if the reunion takes place prematurely, without advanced re-entry skills as part of their “toolkit,” then failure to adapt is almost guaranteed.

However it is accomplished, re-entry is a psychological process and takes time and community. There are options, with no right or wrong answers, and I applaud all involved for their serious attention to this detail.

MARIAN BRECKENRIDGE

Coeur d’Alene