First Day Forward | NEKY Coalition

First Day Forward is a jail reentry program established through our various grant awards.

Currently First Day Forward operates in six counties: Boyd, Carter, Greenup, Mason, Montgomery, and Rowan.

The program begins with peer support specialists screening candidates who meet specific criteria, such as an anticipated discharge to one of the targeted counties, a self-identified substance use disorder, and a willingness to participate. If a candidate qualifies and is accepted, a peer support specialist immediately begins working with them to create a personalized pre-release and post-release case plan.

Before release, participants receive life skills education and assistance with obtaining essential documents such as social security cards, birth certificates, and Medicaid applications. They also receive guidance on housing resources, employment opportunities, treatment options, naloxone training, and other individualized support. Ideally, peer support specialists begin meeting with participants about three months before their release.

Following their release, the participant’s post-release case plan begins. A peer support specialist can provide transportation from the facility to the participant’s discharge address or treatment center. They also help connect participants with community resources, treatment services, primary care, and case management. Additionally, the specialist assists with attending doctor’s visits, NA/AA meetings, and other essential appointments, such as those for Medicaid, ID cards, and the Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP).

During the first 30 days post-release, participants meet with a peer support specialist face-to-face each week. From days 31to 60, they continue biweekly face-to-face meetings. From days 61 to 120, participants receive monthly phone calls from their peer support specialist. This continued support plays a vital role in helping individuals reintegrate successfully (these will then continue for the duration of the grant project).

For many, First Day Forward isn’t just a program – it’s a second chance at life. If it helps even one person breaks free from addiction and reclaim their life future, then every effort has been worth it.

To see success stories from our participants, check out our social media pages: