An initiative in Saskatchewan has helped 25 people with criminal records search for employment. Organized by the non-profit John Howard Society of Saskatchewan, the post-release employment (PRE) program focuses on helping people who have left incarceration search for jobs. Since the program began in March, the organization has successfully helped seven people find jobs through 14 different businesses across the province. “I would give the credit to the employers who are working with us and collaborating and providing all the support for the program,” said program coordinator Rajani Meesala, referring to the program’s success. “I would say that they are very empathetic. Some of the employers can connect to what our clients are going through because they have seen some of them in their family and friends who are facing similar barriers in their lives.” T.U.F.F. Exteriors, a commercial and industrial roofing business in Saskatchewan, is one of the dozen employers accepting people from the program. “Employment is one of the stepping stones for guys who want to get back on their feet,” Mike Tumak said in a news release. “A lot of these guys are in recovery and need a work environment where they feel understood and supported. At T.U.F.F. there’s a place for everybody. We want to give them a chance.” Meesala said the organization is calling out more businesses to join the initiative. “I wish more employers would join us, would collaborate with us and provide more help to the people that we are working with,” she said. “I think it’s a good base to build a beautiful community.” The program is funded by the Law Foundation of Saskatchewan – another non-profit provincial organization that aims to advance justice by supporting innovative programs. Employers or people who are seeking work can find out more details about the program through Fair Chances Hiring. John Howard Society of Saskatchewan’s overall mission is to help people who are at risk or involved in the criminal justice system reintegrate back into their communities after serving time in prison.
