As Ohio works to reduce recidivism and improve reentry outcomes, a new initiative is offering a pathway to housing for individuals with felony records. The state’s newly introduced Certificate of Qualification for Housing (CQH) program seeks to tackle one of the most significant hurdles faced by individuals who have been incarcerated in securing housing. By providing legal protection to landlords and a formal stamp of approval to eligible individuals, the CQH program seeks to ease discrimination and help more people transition successfully back into society.
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Certificate Offers a Second Chance
The CQH allows people with felony convictions to petition a judge for a certificate that confirms their readiness to be responsible tenants. This legal document acts as a formal recommendation, offering reassurance to landlords who may hesitate to rent to someone with a criminal record.
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Protection for Landlords
Although landlords are not required to accept tenants with a CQH, the program incentivizes them by offering protection from liability. If a tenant with a CQH were to become later involved in legal trouble, the landlord would be shielded from legal consequences. This safety net is designed to encourage more property owners to give these individuals a second chance.
Legal Aid Sees Promise in the Program
Lucy Schwallie, an attorney with Southeast Ohio Legal Aid, said the CQH program could remove a major barrier her clients face: access to stable housing. She believes the certificate has the potential to help many, though she stressed that the success of the initiative depends on how accessible the petition process is. Many individuals reentering society have limited literacy skills or lack legal assistance.
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Implementation Remains a Question
So far, Schwallie has not had any clients go through the CQH process, but is optimistic about its potential. She noted that much depends on how the program is implemented on the ground. If it proves simple and user-friendly, it could become an important tool for reentry support.
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Existing Program Focuses on Holistic Reentry
Alongside the new CQH, Ohio has an existing reentry program run by the Athens County Department of Job and Family Services. Coordinators Melissa Macabee and Shawn Stover have led the program for nearly two decades, offering tailored support based on each individual’s needs. This includes help with employment, counseling, and access to basic services.
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Personalized Case Plans Drive Results
Macabee explained that their case plans are not one-size-fits-all. Instead, they work with individuals to identify specific goals and challenges and then tailor services accordingly. This individualized approach has made a meaningful difference in the lives of many former inmates. While the program does not track formal success statistics, Stover said they have seen noticeable reductions in local recidivism. Fewer individuals are returning to jail, and for those who do, the time between incarcerations is longer. The coordinators credit this trend to the combination of hope, resources, and direction their program offers.
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Law Enforcement Voices Support
Athens County Sheriff Rodney Smith expressed support for the CQH initiative, saying he believes everyone deserves a second chance. He emphasized that housing and employment opportunities play a key role in helping people avoid reoffending and contribute to public safety. Sheriff Smith added that if formerly incarcerated individuals see that the community is willing to support them, they are more likely to stay out of trouble. Programs like the CQH show that society is invested in helping people succeed, which can foster a positive cycle of accountability and transformation.
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