Real Chances
Brighter Tomorrows
Clear Tomorrow KC is a nonprofit organization based in Kansas City, Missouri, dedicated to addressing mass incarceration, collateral consequences of a criminal record, and negative social determinants of health (SDOH). These interwoven structures create inequities that deeply harm individuals, families, and entire communities, particularly communities of color and people living in poverty. Collectively, these three forces reinforce and exacerbate one another, contributing to a cycle of disadvantages, poor health outcomes, and systemic exclusion. By combining advocacy for system-wide changes with direct support services, Clear Tomorrow KC is working to build a community where everyone can have access to healthcare, employment, civic engagement, housing, and education, regardless of their past mistakes.
The Human Impact
In the U.S., an estimated 70 to 100 million individuals have a criminal record, which is about one in three adults. These records follow them indefinitely, creating barriers long after the criminal justice system has completed its formal punishment.
Missouri
Missouri has an incarceration rate of 606 per 100,000 which is the 8th highest incineration rate in the country. In any given year, Missouri has over 100,000 citizens behind bars or under supervision.
Missourians Returning Home Each Year
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The Financial Impact
If Clear Tomorrow KC prevents even 100 individuals from recidivating through expungements and other services, it could save Missouri over $3.3 million annually in incarceration costs alone.
State Reimbursements
The state of Missouri spent about $50 million to reimburse counties for the cost of housing people before and after a conviction.
Tax Payer Dollars Spent!
It costs Missouri tax payers just about $32,000 per year to incarcerate one person.
Prison Reentry Costs: Covers housing, food, security, and healthcare for reincarcerated individuals.
Judicial & Legal Costs: Includes court expenses, public defenders, and prosecution costs.
Parole & Probation Violations: Costs associated with monitoring and re-incarcerating those who violate supervision terms.
Lost Workforce Productivity: Economic losses due to reduced employability of individuals returning to prison.
Total Cost: Missouri spends approximately $229.1 million annually on recidivism-related expenses.
The Health Impact
Formerly incarcerated individuals in the U.S. face significant medical challenges upon reentry into society. These challenges arise from limited access to healthcare, high rates of chronic and infectious diseases, mental health issues, and substance abuse disorders. The associated costs of these healthcare burdens impact public health systems, state budgets, and communities.
Key Medical Challenges
Nearly 50% of formerly incarcerated individuals have some form of mental illness (e.g., depression, schizophrenia, PTSD).
Over 80% of formerly incarcerated individuals reported using drugs or alcohol. Opioid overdose rates are nearly 40 times higher among recently released individuals.
Upon release, over 60% of formerly incarcerated individuals are uninsured and lack access to primary care. Many are unable to find employment that provides healthcare benefits.
Nearly 50% of formerly incarcerated individuals have some form of mental illness (e.g., depression, schizophrenia, PTSD).
Over 80% of formerly incarcerated individuals reported using drugs or alcohol. Opioid overdose rates are nearly 40 times higher among recently released individuals.
Upon release, over 60% of formerly incarcerated individuals are uninsured and lack access to primary care. Many are unable to find employment that provides healthcare benefits.
A 2 year decline In life expectancy
Every year spent behind bars shortens a person’s life expectancy by two years. At Clear Tomorrow KC, we recognize that mass incarceration doesn’t just harm individuals—it takes a collective toll on our communities. If not for incarceration, the average life expectancy in the United States would be five years longer. These aren’t just numbers—they’re lives, families, and futures lost to a system in urgent need of change. That’s why we work every day to break the cycle through advocacy, expungement, and support services that restore dignity, opportunity, and hope.
Join The Cause
Free Mental Health Support
The Clear Mind Mental Wellness Program is designed to bridge the gap between individuals, couples, and families in need of therapy and credentialed private practitioners across Kansas City. Through Clear Tomorrow KC (CTKC), clients gain access to free, high-quality mental health services by way of a streamlined voucher system and dedicated support staff.
We connect individuals and families with credentialed, compassionate mental wellness professionals at no cost. By easing the financial burden and removing logistical hurdles, we make therapy more accessible, more human, and more hopeful. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, grief, trauma, or simply need someone to talk to, Clear Tomorrow KC’s Clear Mind Therapy Fund is here to ensure that care is within reach—not just for some, but for all.
We are here!
Still have Questions
Please visit our frequently asked questions page to learn more about our organization. If you still have questions, please feel free to contact us!
We are here!
Still have Questions
Please visit our frequently asked questions page to learn more about our organization. If you still have questions, please feel free to contact us!