Reentry projects report that 33% of all prison admissions are due to parole violations. To reduce recidivism, communities need to consider factors such as the threat of homelessness, mental health and acclimation challenges, and a lack of education and employment opportunities. Recidivism and the complex challenge our criminal justice system faces are multi-tiered problems with no linear or singular answer – HWF recognizes this challenge and is engaging with California Retailers Association to push through legislation that tackles the high number of theft cases in both Los Angeles and Orange counties that are sentenced to jail and prison time. In conjunction with the courts, HWF hopes to use our RISEUP program as a steppingstone to establish a sustainable career pathway, reaching individuals before they enter the system.