The New Jersey Department of Corrections (NJDOC) has launched a new initiative aimed at improving reentry services for incarcerated veterans. The program was formally introduced during a ceremonial signing, marking the start of a collaborative effort with the New Jersey Reentry Corporation (NJRC) and Education and Health Centers of America (EHCA).
“This initiative honors our commitment to those who have served by ensuring they receive the community services necessary to reenter civilian life,” said NJDOC Acting Commissioner Victoria L. Kuhn, Esq. “By partnering with NJRC and EHCA, we are providing veterans with a specialized pathway to success—combining legal advocacy, healthcare, and career support to break the cycle of recidivism and strengthen public safety.”
The partnership is designed to create a continuous support system that begins while veterans are still incarcerated and continues as they return to their communities. The framework includes verifying veteran status immediately upon release, enrolling eligible individuals in state and federal benefits programs, and coordinating access to medical care, mental health services, and substance use treatment.
“Our commitment to supporting Garden State Veterans does not end at the courthouse steps,” said Vincent Solomeno, acting commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs. “Working together, we can ensure that veterans reenter their communities with a clear path to accessing benefits, programs, and services. Through deliberate and coordinated action, we are collectively working to reduce recidivism and support rehabilitation.”
The program also provides case management tailored for each veteran’s needs. Services include legal assistance aimed at removing employment obstacles as well as direct referrals for housing upon release.
“I am grateful to Gov. Mikie Sherrill for her strong commitment to New Jersey’s veterans, and to Acting Commissioner Victoria Kuhn for her leadership in making this partnership possible,” said James McGreevey, executive director and chairman of the New Jersey Reentry Corporation. “This MOU ensures that veterans returning home, regardless of discharge status, are connected to the treatment, services, and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives with dignity and stability.”
Steve Johnson, CEO of EHCA added: “EHCA has proudly served more than 700 NJDOC incarcerated veterans over the past seven years and we look forward to continuing that work in all state institutions, halfway houses and in the community post-incarceration. EHCA offers services such as documentation, veterans affairs referrals, housing assistance, transportation, food, clothing and other essentials, to every identified incarcerated and formerly incarcerated veteran throughout the State.”
