Background "Fair Chance" Resources
The following resources are resources that can assist anyone in need but all of them are identified as resources that can support individuals impacted by an arrest, conviction or incarceration, including those exclusively for those of the LGBTQIA+ community, those who are disabled and those who are impacted by Georgia's sex off***der registry.

State Resource Guides (A-Z)

GEORGIA

1. The Southern Center for Human Rights has a statewide A-Z resource guides for GA & AL. Resources include info on shelter, permanent supportive housing, rental, mortgage, grocery, utility and prescription assistance, employment, domestic violence, etc. (also includes info for those on the registry and who are LGBTQIA+). Click the button below to see the guides to search by a city near you.

2. Restore Georgia is a Georgia nonprofit that advocates for Georgians impacted by Georgia's sex off***er registry (SOs, Registrants or PFRs/People Forced to Register). They have compiled a statewide (and national) list of SO/Registrant/PFR friendly resources for shared housing, employment, legal, support groups, etc. Click the button below to view the resource guide.

3. Georgia SO One Stop Resource- Although the website's name is Georgia Sex Off***er One Stop Resource, there are resources for ANYONE in need of resources. There is a tab on the site for ANYONE with a criminal record in need of housing AND they have a tab where you can search for housing in ALL states! This site has resources mostly in housing but also have resources listed for legal, travel, employment and other resources by state and county! Be sure to also read the blog posts and replies from individuals as people have listed resources that have helped them as well. 

National Resource Databases & Websites

1. 211 is a national database that connects you to expert, caring help to connect you for resources you need. You can access the resources by calling 2-1-1 (every call is completely confidential) or by clicking the button below to visit the website to search for resoures near you that can help with assistance such as housing, shelter, utility, mortgage, hot meals, identification, birth certificates, prescription, healthcare and other assistance. 

2. Georgia SO One Stop Resource- Although the website's name is Georgia Sex Off***er One Stop Resource, there are resources for ANYONE in need of resources. There is a tab on the site for ANYONE with a criminal record in need of housing AND they have a tab where you can search for housing in ALL states! This site has resources mostly in housing but also have resources listed for legal, travel, employment and other resources by state and county! Be sure to also read the blog posts and replies from individuals as people have listed resources that have helped them as well. 

Probation Information Network (PIN)- Althought PIN was created to help federal defendants in all states WITH SEXUAL CONVICTIONS and their loved ones navigate the information, misinformation, and, often, lack of information available during this experience, the resources on their page are helpful to ALL with a criminal record. To assist people access resources in their reentry, PIN provides information and access to resources to assist those navigating the federal criminal justice system, including individuals facing incarceration, both before and after they begin their sentences, as well as their families and loved ones. The website offers guides and checklists for every step of the process, as well as a directory of federal criminal defense attorneys. PIN works with probation officers, treatment centers, social workers, universities, and law firms to build and maintain comprehensive databases of reentry resources and post-conviction rules and restrictions for every state and federal district. NOTE: there are also resources on the page for people who did not serve federal time and for those without sexual convictions.

Population Specific Organizations 
(LGBTQIA+/Trans & SOs/PFRs )

 LGBTQIA+

Trans Specific

1. Advocates of the South is a Trans/Intersex Male led organization, with a focus of empowering Black and Brown individuals to connect to resources and bridge gaps where access is denied for trainings, advocacy work to build equity where disparities are and the lack of resources to keep folks empowered, with the focal lens of social change.  www.advocatesofthesouth.com

2. Spark Reproductive Justice Now created a comprehensive Atlanta Trans Resource Guide with Mama Fund and multiple other trans-competent and trans-affirming orgs in the metro Atlanta area. See the guide at: https://atltransguide.com

3. Trans Housing Coalition- provides free housing to homeless trans people. www.transhousingcoalition.org

4. Salvation Army- Joya Poole, Housing Specialist- Email: joyapoole@gmail.com

5. TRANScending Barriers is a Black Trans-Led  non-profit organization serving the Transgender & Gender Non-conforming community in the state of Georgia. They assist with gender & name change assistance, peer mentorship and support and transitional assistance (trauma and drug recovery, safe housing, continued education, and job readiness training).   www.transcendingbarriersatl.org

Individuals and families impacted by Georgia's sex off***der registry

GEORGIA

1. Registrant Compliant Hotel ALERT!! InTown Suites Extended Stay Atlanta GA – Sandy Springs 

From $1479 monthly, From $364 weekly, + $3 daily tech fee. Reservations: (855) 611-0142 | Property Direct: (404) 531-0067

355 Hammond Dr, Sandy Springs, GA 30328

Office Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am-7pm, Sun: Closed
Check In: 11:00am, Check Out: 11:00am.

Website: https://www.intownsuites.com/extended-stay-hotels/georgia/sandy-springs/north-3/

2. Restore Georgia. Website: www.restore-georgia.org. Email: info@restore-georgia.org. Restore Georgia serves as a collective voice for individuals and families impacted by Georgia's sex off***er registry in a NON LEGAL manner. They facilitate monthly virtual support groups for SOs/PFRs and their and their families so they can connect and share resources, they provide in court advocacy, they closely monitor proposed legislative changes, testify before legislative committees considering changes to sexual offense legislation, provide statewide SO/PFR friendly resources, they host quartertly, virtual  statewide meetings with special guests that give info on all things registry such as traveling whileon the registry, legislative updates and introductions to attorneys, national advocacy organizations, housing providers and employers, etc. They do not offer housing or financial assistance

  • Fearless Support Groups- Restore Georgia hosts virtual support Fearless meetings on Zoom every 3rd Thursday at 6:30pm for people on the registry and their families. The meetings are not recorded and are ONLY open to those on the registry and their loved ones. Law enforcement, corrections staff and POs are not allowed. Please join to connect with other Georgians impacted by the registry to connect, support and share resources that have helped others on the call. Register to receive the zoom info for the next Fearless meeting at https://restore-georgia.org/connect/fearless/
  • To see their compiled a statewide (and national) list of SO/Registrant/PFR friendly resources for shared housing, employment, legal, support groups, etc., click here

3. Georgia SO One Stop Resource- Although the website's name is Georgia Sex Off***er One Stop Resource, there are resources for ANYONE in need of resources. There is a tab on the site for ANYONE with a criminal record in need of housing AND they have a tab where you can search for housing in ALL states! This site has resources mostly in housing but also have resources listed for legal, travel, employment and other resources by state and county! Be sure to also read the blog posts and replies from individuals as people have listed resources that have helped them as well. 

4. Probation Information Network (PIN)- Althought PIN was created to help federal defendants in all states WITH SEXUAL CONVICTIONS and their loved ones navigate the information, misinformation, and, often, lack of information available during this experience, the resources on their page are helpful to ALL with a criminal record. To assist people access resources in their reentry, PIN provides information and access to resources to assist those navigating the federal criminal justice system, including individuals facing incarceration, both before and after they begin their sentences, as well as their families and loved ones. The website offers guides and checklists for every step of the process, as well as a directory of federal criminal defense attorneys. PIN works with probation officers, treatment centers, social workers, universities, and law firms to build and maintain comprehensive databases of reentry resources and post-conviction rules and restrictions for every state and federal district. NOTE: there are also resources on the page for people who did not serve federal time and for those without sexual convictions.

NATIONAL- (state by state)

1. NARSOL Life Support Resources- https://resources.narsol.org/site-map/life-support/

  • In the employment section, there are resources to help you find a job such as resume tips as well as employers that hire people on the registry. 

2. ONCE FALLEN- Once Fallen is an informational and resource site specifically for those placed on the sex offense registry. They have state by state listings of resources ranging from housing, legal, employment, treatment providers, residency resitriction laws, travel issues, nursing home issues, articles and more! All of the website tabs have VERY good info but we HIGHLY encourage you to check out the 1st tab "Resources for RCs and the Housing Lists. Please read the disclaimer and if you do not see anything in your city, email them at  iamthefallen1@yahoo.com to inquire if they have any housing resources in your city that are not listed on the site that may be hidden per the request of those who did not want their housing opportunities listed publicly. 

3. CROSSROADS CHURCH- ONLINE CHURCH CREATED FOR REGISTRANTS (or PFRs)- On the registry and need a church home? A new and special kind of church launched.....an online church for individuals and families who have been impacted by sex offense laws who have been cast out or made to feel unwelcomed at other churches. The purpose of Crossroads is to build a community for spiritual growth and support that is free of judgment. While they have a focus on ministering to those on the registry and their families, they are all inclusive for EVERYONE. The church is 100% online and goes live every Sunday at 1pm CST/2pm Georgia time. 

4. Probation Information Network (PIN)- Althought PIN was created to help federal defendants in all states WITH SEXUAL CONVICTIONS and their loved ones navigate the information, misinformation, and, often, lack of information available during this experience, the resources on their page are helpful to ALL with a criminal record. To assist people access resources in their reentry, PIN provides information and access to resources to assist those navigating the federal criminal justice system, including individuals facing incarceration, both before and after they begin their sentences, as well as their families and loved ones. The website offers guides and checklists for every step of the process, as well as a directory of federal criminal defense attorneys. PIN works with probation officers, treatment centers, social workers, universities, and law firms to build and maintain comprehensive databases of reentry resources and post-conviction rules and restrictions for every state and federal district. NOTE: there are also resources on the page for people who did not serve federal time and for those without sexual convictions.

5. Georgia SO One Stop Resource- Although the website's name is Georgia Sex Off***er One Stop Resource, there are resources for ANYONE in need of resources. There is a tab on the site for ANYONE with a criminal record in need of housing AND they have a tab where you can search for housing in ALL states! This site has resources mostly in housing but also have resources listed for legal, travel, employment and other resources by state and county! Be sure to also read the blog posts and replies from individuals as people have listed resources that have helped them as well. 

Housing & Other Reentry Resources

1. Registrant Compliant Hotel ALERT!! InTown Suites Extended Stay Atlanta GA – Sandy Springs 

From $1479 monthly, From $364 weekly, + $3 daily tech fee. Reservations: (855) 611-0142 | Property Direct: (404) 531-0067

355 Hammond Dr, Sandy Springs, GA 30328

Office Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am-7pm, Sun: Closed
Check In: 11:00am, Check Out: 11:00am.

Website: https://www.intownsuites.com/extended-stay-hotels/georgia/sandy-springs/north-3/

2. The Transitional Housing for Offender Reentry (THOR) program is a listing of community-based housing for persons releasing from prison or on probation or parole. Facilities include Structured Housing (SH) (housing that is approved for individuals who are still incarcerated who meet prison-release eligibility requirements but who do not have an available residence, as well as DCS supervisees who become displaced) and Recovery Residences (RR) (facilities that meet DCS standards and are THOR designation as a recovery residences with accreditation from a minimum of one of the following agencies: GARR, DCH, CARF,)

NOTE: Although Structured Housing does not include substance abuse or mental health treatment, other programs may be provided. Attendance at available programs cannot be required.

3. Probation Information Network (PIN)- Althought PIN was created to help federal defendants in all states WITH SEXUAL CONVICTIONS and their loved ones navigate the information, misinformation, and, often, lack of information available during this experience, the resources on their page are helpful to ALL with a criminal record. To assist people access resources in their reentry, PIN provides information and access to resources to assist those navigating the federal criminal justice system, including individuals facing incarceration, both before and after they begin their sentences, as well as their families and loved ones. The website offers guides and checklists for every step of the process, as well as a directory of federal criminal defense attorneys. PIN works with probation officers, treatment centers, social workers, universities, and law firms to build and maintain comprehensive databases of reentry resources and post-conviction rules and restrictions for every state and federal district. NOTE: there are also resources on the page for people who did not serve federal time and for those without sexual convictions.

Legal Resources

1. Probation Information Network (PIN)- Search PIN's state by state directory for a federal criminal defense attorney near you who specializes in your type of case: Drug Offenses  —  Fraud —  Gun Offenses  — Illegal Reentry  —  Registry Removal  —  Sex Offenses  —  Supervised Release Revocation

2. Georgia Justice Project is an Atlanta based law firm that provides legal services, policy advocacy, record clearing/expungements and community engagement throughout Georgia. NOTE: It is required to attend a FREE, virtual GJP “First Fridays” session before applying for GJP’s services. These sessions occur on the first Friday of every month, and include information on how to read your record, what is eligible for expungement in Georgia, how to apply for a pardon, and how to apply to GJP’s services.See their services below:

  • Criminal defense & Social Services- (Fulton & DeKalb Counties only)- GJP provides consultation and legal services for:
    • Clients facing misdemeanor or felony charges in Fulton and DeKalb counties
    • Clients serving lengthy probation sentences and seeking early termination in the Metro-Atlanta area
    • Returning citizens housed at the Metro Reentry Facility (MRF)

Georgia Justice Project does not take the following criminal defense cases: Domestic violence, Sex crimes, Federal charges, Child abuse, Post-convictions habeas, Traffic violations or Charges outside Fulton or DeKalb counties.

  • Early Probation of Termination- Are you on felony probation? Have you served at least 3 years of your probation sentence? Don't owe Restitution? If so, you may be eligible for early termination of your probation (even if you still owe fines and fees)! Remember, if you terminate probation early, you can then vote. You can also vote even if still serving a Felony Offender Act or Conditional Discharge sentence, as long as your status isn’t revoked. See GJP.org/voting for more information.
  • Record Clearing & Expungements- GJP ofers crimnal record services and assists with record restriction and sealing, commonly known as expungement. record corrections and Pardons. In some instances, they may be able to help with Occupational licensing denial due to a criminal record.
    • Second Chance Expungement Desks- The Second Chance Desk is a community-based resource where individuals can have their criminal history reviewed by an attorney, receive a free consultation, and obtain assistance submitting pro se materials to clear eligible history. Second Chance Desks are launched in partnership with local prosecutors/community partners to create a manageable and streamlined process for everyone involved. GJP has  Second Chance Desks located in Cobb County, Athens and Augusta to assist individuals with charges from those counties. 

Voting

You CAN vote in Georgia with felony as long as you are not currently on probation or parole and you do not need your record expunged or pardoned in order to vote. As soon as your sentence is complete, your right to vote is automatically restored. You just need to re-register, and you can vote. Also, if you are serving a felony First Offender Act or Conditional Discharge sentence, you don’t lose your right to vote unless that status gets revoked. For More info on voting with a felony, see the following:

Family Violence Programs, DUI, Shoplifters, Anger Managent & Parenting Classes

1. The GA Commission on Family Family has a comprehensive alphabetical listing of providers throughout Georgia. To find a family violence program near you, visit: https://gcfv.georgia.gov/locations

2. Valdosta GA. Lowndes County State Court has a listing of certified providers for those required to take family violence, shoplifting, anger management, drug & alcohol, DUI & parenting classes. You can see that listing by clicking here.

Substance Use Disorder & Treatment Support & Programs

NOTE: Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), insurance companies must cover substance abuse treatment services, such as detox, outpatient treatment, inpatient rehab, and therapy. ACA forced changes in insurance coverage to allow those needing substance misuse treatment the same privileges given for medical and surgical treatment services. Each state can make these changes through several expansion options. If you don’t have insurance, you can also purchase an affordable plan through the Marketplace. All you have to do is input your basic information and income and then the search results will show you available plans, as well as the price of the available plans. (Click here to see if you are eligible for affordable healthcare)

1. Free Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in Georgia. Find an accredited addiction rehab center in Georgia. Discover all 624 recovery options in locations convenient to you. Sort by detox, inpatient, outpatient, aftercare and more. 

2. SMART Recovery is the leading, evidence-informed approach to overcoming addictive behaviors and leading a balanced life. SMART is stigma-free and emphasizes self-empowerment. SMART Recovery serves those with addictive behaviors, including both substance and activity/process addictions. Populations include those impacted by the criminal legal system, family & friends, youth & teens, LGBTQIA+ and military veterans & first responders. Trained volunteer facilitators lead effective mutual support group discussions on the following topics:

  1. Building and maintaining motivation
  2. Coping with urges and cravings
  3. Managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
  4. Living a balanced life

Related tools consistent with evidence-based motivational and cognitive behavioral theories are also offered and discussed. Find a virtual meeting near you at https://smartrecovery.org/meeting 

3. Opiod Treatment Providers of Georgia- A non-profit organization of treatment providers, counselors, and other allies that support treatment and recovery for individuals with Opioid Use Disorder through education, stigma reduction and the utilization of best practices. Find a treatment facility near you at https://www.otpgeorgia.org/treatment-facilities/

Treatment Providers & Polygraph Examiners

NL-SCO, Inc. does not endorse any of these examiners or providers. The information was submitted by individuals who have received treatment or services from the below examiners or providers or sent the links to us to share with those we serve. Therefore, please do your own research and due diligence when contacting and securing the services of any providers or examiners listed below to make sure that they are an approved agency of whomever is requiring you to attend the program. 

1. Richmond Hill, GA. Bell & Associates. The Specialized Treatment of Perpetrators (STOP) is a state corrections treatment provider led program for people convicted of sex offenses and provides more than a year (15+ months) of relapse prevention treatment for state-recognized individuals on an out-patient basis. Phone: 912-704-8262. Click here to see more and email them. 

2. Lagrange, GA. Counseling & Psychology Services of LaGrange, Inc. 706.884.5050. This agency provides individual and group therapy as well as the following court mandated programs:

We are honored to support the State of Georgia and Coweta Judicial Circuit by providing treatment and evaluation services for several criminal justice programs. Our goal is not only only help individuals to redirect their lives using evidence-based, state-approved programming, but also to reduce the risk of re-offending and make our community a safer place for everyone.  Click on the links below to learn more about our court-mandated programs:

See all of their court mandated programs and costs at https://cps-lagrange.com/court-mandated-programs

3. Macon, GA. The Southern Center for Choice Theory (SCCT). 478-741-1268. Offers an array of services including an SO treatment prgram. You can learn more at https://www.thesoutherncenterforchoicetheory.com/services/sexual-offender-treatment-progam

4. The Georgia Department of Probation Operations has a list of approved sex offender treatment providers and evaluators in the state. Some of these locations include:

5. The Georgia Association for the Treatment and Prevention of Sexual Abuse (GATSA) has a list of treatment providers and polygraph examiners on their website. 

5. Although below is a 2013 listing of DCS approved treatment providers, some may not be on THIS 2020 LIST of DCS approved treatment providers. Click here to see the PDF list that we received from an individual to share with others.

6. Below is a clickable guide with listings of GA DOC approved treatment providers. You can also see it here. The list is from 2013 so some providers may have been removed or added since then so you may want to compare it to the providers listed in #5 above. Please do your due diligence to research and contact tne providers to see if they are still GA DOC approved. 

See our Privacy Policy

 

NewLife-Second Chance Outreach, Inc. is a non-partisan organization. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed belong solely to the individual author or speaker, and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the organization.

NewLife-Second Chance Outreach, Inc. is a fiscal sponsor and grantor of  All of Us or None GA- Atlanta Chapter by way of funding provided by a grant from Legal Services for Prisoners with Children. All contributions for All of Us or None GA- Atlanta Chapter received by NewLife-Second Chance Outreach, Inc. are tax-deductible within the legal limits under NewLife-Second Chance Outreach, Inc.’s 501(c)(3) status. Checks and money orders should be made payable to: NewLife-Second Chance Outreach, Inc. and identified as a contribution for All of Us or None GA- Atlanta Chapter in the memo field to ensure accurate designated account tracking

For tax purposes, NewLife-Second Chance Outreach, Inc.'s EIN# is 80-0461813. 

Please send all LEGAL correspondence to: Northwest Registered Agent Service, Inc. 8735 DUNWOODY PLACE, STE N, ATLANTA, GA 30350

We need your consent to load the translations

We use a third-party service to translate the website content that may collect data about your activity. Please review the details in the privacy policy and accept the service to view the translations.