The Assistance for Released Prisoners Vienna / NEW START

The funding program of the Vienna Prisoner Reintegration Assistance / NEUSTART enables non-profit organizations in Vienna to provide sustainable social work support for inmates and former inmates. The goal is to optimally prepare the counselors for the clients' needs already prior to release and to ensure a stable reintegration into social life after incarceration. In particular, support is provided for securing housing, livelihood, and the gradual reintegration into the community. For this purpose, the City of Vienna provides funds to finance two full-time equivalents at NEUSTART, thereby ensuring continuous support before and after release. The funding is granted as a subsidy and is awarded year-round without a deadline.

To apply, non-profit organizations must provide proof of performance confirming an existing social work structure in the previous year, as well as an audited financial statement and a detailed description of services. Only personnel costs for the mentioned full-time equivalents are eligible for funding. The ongoing submission of applications eliminates fixed deadlines and allows for flexible project planning. This special funding guarantees sustainable support during the critical phase of release from incarceration and strengthens equal opportunities for a successful new start in Vienna.