Having a criminal record not only prevents people from accessing practical opportunities, it can also take a toll on someone’s mental and emotional health.
That’s why we’re proud to announce a new partnership with Mercy Care to bring record clearance services to hundreds of people on Adult Medicaid plans in Arizona.
Thanks to a generous $300,000 grant from the Mercy C.A.R.E.S. Community Reinvestment program, Rasa is launching a pilot project to help Mercy Care members access free legal services to help them seal or set aside their criminal records, or restore their rights.
Why Record Clearance Matters for Health
A criminal record doesn’t just impact someone’s ability to get a job or rent an apartment, it impacts their physical and mental health too. Studies show that people with records often face higher stress, lower confidence, less access to care, and more difficulty getting stable housing and work. These are all key parts of what experts call the social determinants of health, the things outside of a doctor’s office that influence well-being.
Clearing a record can change that. People who clear their records are more likely to:
- Find and keep stable jobs
- Move into safer housing
- Go back to school
- Reconnect with supportive communities
- Feel less stress and more self-worth
How the Mercy Care Program Works
This new pilot program offers full legal support for Mercy Care members who qualify. That includes:
- Legal record clearance services
- A dedicated case manager to provide legal case management support
- Connection through the Rasa platform to other services like education, peer support, and fair chance employment opportunities
All this work is grounded in Rasa’s mission: making legal help accessible and affordable, and removing the barriers that keep people from moving forward.
A Shared Vision for Arizona
Both Rasa and Mercy Care are committed to building a healthier, more fair Arizona. Mercy Care, now in its 40th year, has already invested over $38 million in projects that support mental health, housing, and recovery. Partnering with Rasa adds a powerful legal dimension to that work, unlocking opportunities for people who’ve been held back by past mistakes.
Looking Ahead with Mercy Care
This partnership is just the beginning. By connecting legal services to healthcare, we can tackle root problems, not just symptoms. We believe that a clean slate can be the start of a healthier life, and we’re excited to be part of that journey for so many in the Mercy Care network.
If you or someone you know has a criminal record and is working with Mercy Care, reach out to learn more. A second chance could be just a few steps away.
