Newark Mayor Jerry Clifton issued the following statement in response to Newark’s participation in the Family Reentry Pilot Program managed by multiple state agencies: 

"I became aware of the Family Reentry Pilot Program yesterday, July 7^th, and while I fully support reentry initiatives and statewide efforts to reduce recidivism, I cannot at this point endorse Newark’s participation due the fact that the Newark Housing Authority agreed to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding without input and consideration from its citizens and elected officials. In the coming weeks, I look forward to hearing feedback from the public and working with the Executive Director of the Newark Housing Authority to better understand the implications of this pilot program on the City’s resources and its residents."

The Family Reentry Pilot Program provides qualified individuals recently released from incarceration, or individuals who have been in the community for less than three years with the opportunity to reunite with their families living in public housing for a period of up to two years. While enrolled in the program, participants must comply will applicable community supervision terms and will have access to support services including obtaining benefits, securing employment and completing their education.