In addition, the Branch approves all architectural drawings for jail renovation and new construction projects and monitors the construction process. The Class D Felony Program which began in 1992, allows Class D felons to be housed in county jails. Community Center Program Under the Community Center Program, inmates who are near their parole eligibility dates are housed close to their home towns in halfway houses under contract the the Department of Corrections. Approximately 500 inmates are participating in this reintegration program. The program allows inmates to become reacquainted with their families and community, and gives them a head start in seeking employment.
Inmates can contribute valuable community service work to our counties.
In 1996, community service inmates contributed the equivalent of 4.5 million dollars in community service work to the Commonwealth. In addition, many inmates are enrolled in vocational school and college programs. The centers also provide counseling services and employment assistance. Parolees are referred to halfway houses if they do not have a place to live upon release, do not have a job, or both. Once parolees are placed in one of 11 houses under contract, they are assisted by house staff and the local probation and parole officers in seeking employment.