Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry advocates for funding to boost Ohio reentry programs

Ohio's House Public Safety Committee convened on March 5, 2025, to discuss critical funding needs for reentry and workforce development programs aimed at supporting individuals transitioning from incarceration back into society. The meeting highlighted the importance of sustained financial support for organizations like Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry (LMM) and the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO), which provide essential services to returning citizens.

Maria Fosha, President and CEO of LMM, advocated for funding to expand their reentry programs, emphasizing their transformative impact on individuals' lives. LMM's "Chopping for Change" initiative, which offers vocational training in culinary arts, has achieved a remarkable under 3% recidivism rate among its graduates since 2016. Fosha underscored that ongoing state funding is crucial for the long-term viability of such programs, which not only reduce recidivism but also contribute to safer communities and a stronger workforce.

Oluwatosa Martins, Midwest Regional Director for CEO, echoed these sentiments, calling for a continued investment of $1 million over the biennium to support employment training for justice-impacted individuals. CEO has successfully placed over 3,500 individuals into jobs since 2017, providing immediate employment and essential skills training. Martins highlighted the need for advanced credentialing to help participants secure higher-paying jobs, noting that those who complete such programs see a significant increase in wages.

The committee also heard from Sasha Naiman, Executive Director of the Children's Law Center, who urged investment in the Department of Youth Services (DYS) budget. Naiman advocated for a shift from large institutional facilities to smaller, community-based alternatives for youth, which have proven to be more effective in reducing recidivism and ensuring better outcomes for young people.

The discussions at the meeting underscored a collective commitment to enhancing reentry services and supporting individuals as they reintegrate into their communities. The committee's decisions in the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the future of these vital programs, which aim to break the cycle of incarceration and foster public safety through meaningful employment and support.