SIERRA Center

SIERRA Center is comprised of two components: a pre-trial program and a post incarceration, program with a focus on mental illness, for men involved with the criminal justice system.

Our mission is to offer clients a positive sense of direction and empower them to behave as law-abiding citizens and productive members of society. SIERRA programs are designed to address the characteristics of offenders that can be changed and are associated with the individual’s criminal activities.

Located in New Haven, SIERRA Center provides clients being released from incarceration or those awaiting trial employment and educational opportunities. Of the 30 beds in the post incarceration facility, eight are set aside for offenders with behavioral health issues. The pre-trial program is comprised of 16 beds for individuals with behavioral health needs. Clients in both program components are diagnosed with mental illness and a majority also have a co-occurring substance abuse diagnosis.  By addressing each client's criminogenic needs, the program is able to develop a comprehensive plan for each client that is able to address their risk of re-offense.

Services provided include:

  • Substance abuse and dependence
  • Guidance on employment
  • Educational opportunities
  • Family and peer relations
  • Coping skills
  • Attitudes and values
  • Psychiatric stability

Referrals for the Post-SIERRA program come from the State of Connecticut Department of Correction/Parole.  Referrals for the Pre-SIERRA program come from the Court Support Services Division specialized mental health units within Jail Re-Interview and Probation.

For more information on SIERRA Center – Post Incarceration Branch, please contact Jeanne Radawich, Program Manager, at 203-789-4441, or via email at jradawich@theconnectioninc.org.

For more information on SIERRA Center – Pre-Trial Branch, please contact Dana Ashby, Program Director, at 203-752-9343, or via email at dashby@theconnectioninc.org.

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