HONOLULU – A program that helps Kaua'i residents achieve self-sufficiency following incarceration and substance abuse treatment has received a $200,000 state grant, according to a news release from the governor's office.

The program provides participants with clean and sober transitional housing and support services aimed at reuniting them with their families and reintegrating them into the community, the news release said.

"Ke Ala Haka helps individuals during the post-incarceration recovery process, an area of focus for our state as we work to reduce recidivism rates," Gov. Linda Lingle said in the release. "By providing these residents with a comprehensive support system, Ke Ala Haka not only reduces relapse occurrences, but also creates the foundation for stronger families and a healthier community."

The program has been offering transitional housing for released offenders since June 2006. The $200,000 will be used to secure transitional housing facilities across the island of Kaua'i'i, to train Ke Ala Haka's network of mentors, called navigators, and to help cover staff salaries. The program assists about 50 individuals a year.

"Ke Ala Haka is helping former drug offenders on Kaua'i'i get back on the right path, which benefits the entire island," said Clayton Frank, director of the Department of Public Safety. "We value the program's positive impacts on the lives of these individuals, as well as their families."