Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for ReMerge?
Mothers of minor children, including pregnant women, who are currently facing non-violent felony convictions in Oklahoma County may qualify for the ReMerge program.
How can I get myself or a loved one into the ReMerge program?
All ReMerge participants must be referred by the District Attorney’s Office, Public Defenders Office, or an Oklahoma County Judge. If you believe you qualify, we recommend telling your attorney that you would like to be screened for diversion. Please note that ReMerge staff cannot take applications or admit anyone into the program.
What is the difference between prison diversion and prison reentry?
The easiest way to distinguish them is that diversion is before prison, and reentry is after prison. With diversion, someone is currently facing charges and put on a program path rather than a prison path. With reentry, someone has been charged with a crime, gone to prison, met the time requirement, and are now being reintroduced to society.
How is ReMerge funded?
ReMerge is funded through diverse sources, including government grants, corporate contributions, foundations, United Way, and individual donors. We are deeply thankful for the generous support from our community, which ensures the sustainability of our programs and allows us to continue empowering women and families in their journey of restoration and hope.
Does ReMerge work?
Yes! Oklahoma’s recidivism rate (relapse in criminal behavior) is 20%, that is 1 in 5 people. For ReMerge graduates, that number goes all the way down to 5%, that’s 1 in 20 people. Additionally, it has saved the state of Oklahoma over $53,000,000 in incarceration costs, lost wages.
*Measured for the first 36 months after graduation.
How can I donate to ReMerge?
Yes! You can donate online here, or mail a check to 823 N. Villa Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73107. You can also use our Amazon Wishlist, or donate the following items: body wash, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo and conditioner, hair gel, hairbrushes and combs, bath towels, water bottles, new t-shirts and leggings, and gently used professional clothing. Clothing items are needed in sizes XS – 5XL.
How can I volunteer at ReMerge?
Family Events: Volunteer to serve at Summer Sizzle (June), Back 2 School Bash (August), Fall Fest (October), or the Holiday Extravaganza (December).
GED Tutoring: Tutor a ReMerge mom working on her GED in the areas of Social Studies, Science, Mathematics, Reading and Writing. And don’t worry, you don’t have to be proficient in all subjects, just pick what’s best for you! Monday 10 AM – 3 PM, Tuesday 12 PM – 3 PM, Wednesday & Thursday 10 AM – 3 PM
Catalyst Cookies: Help our moms manage orders, take inventory, and bake cookies in our Catalyst Cookies program! Mondays 10 AM – 3 PM, Wednesdays 1 PM – 3 PM
Meal Prep: Help our Health & Wellness team prep and serve lunch for our ReMerge moms. Monday – Thursdays 10:30 AM – 12 PM
Interested in something else? Reach out! We would love to explore new opportunities with you.
Where do ReMerge participants live?
Phase 1 & 2: FirStep – 24 Hour Monitored Sober Living
Phase 3: Community Sober Living
Phase 4 & 5: Independent Housing
What makes ReMerge different from other programs?
ReMerge is the only prison diversion program in the nation that specifically serves mothers. A key element of our program is our Strengthening Families department that specifically helps our moms work towards child reunification. Additionally, we offer 360 wrap-around services from day one. That means that when a new participant walks into ReMerge, she is introduced to her full team: a Care Coordinator, a Health & Wellness Coordinator, an Education & Employment Coordinator, a Strengthening Families Coordinator, a Therapist, and a Peer Recovery Support Specialist. After an intake with each, ReMerge participants can start working on their goals right away, no stair-stepping!