What are alternative post-release models that can improve the recidivism rate?

The current post-release model for inmates varies wildly from community to community, and most communities do not have a model at all. Inmates are released back to the same situations and environments that gave rise to their crimes to begin with, so without safeguards in place, the loop of recidivism is very hard to escape.
Reducing recidivism begins during detention with careful planning in collaboration with the inmate, the inmate's support system, and the courts (when required). While it is often difficult to eliminate the causes of recidivism, there have been major strides in several communities to enhance post-release planning.
The first step in post-release planning is for an advocate, typically a friend, family member, social worker, or parole officer, to determine what the needs of the inmate will be before he or she returns to the community. Some of the most common needs are as follows:
Secure housing is a major factor in preventing recidivism. Some cities, like New York City and Salt Lake City, have implemented housing-first models for ex-offenders in order to give them a stable foundation when released back to the community. Halfway houses, community shelters, and even government voucher programs are some of the options available for those who do not have stable housing to return to. Housing is not just a physical need for ex-offenders, it is also a legal one. If an ex-offender is picked up for trespassing or loitering due to insecure housing, they can be charged with another crime and/or violation of parole, leading to recidivism.
For many inmates, continuance of care is of paramount importance. According to both public and private research, more than 50% of the prison population has one or more mental health diagnoses that must be managed after release. Connecting inmates with medical assistance programs, psychiatrists, therapists, community advocates, and 12-step meetings are all proactive approaches for preventing recidivism. The National GAINS Center, under the auspices of SAMHSA, a branch of the Department of Health and Human Services, operates and funds pilot programs across the country for both jail diversion and recidivism prevention in mentally ill individuals.
Finally, employment opportunities can be a barrier for ex-offenders, leading to hopelessness and, eventually, recidivism. Inmates should take advantage of education and career training programs, if permitted, while incarcerated in order to enhance their marketable skills. Many jobs programs for ex-offenders are run by religious, nonprofit organizations. The inmate and his or her advocate can research agencies in the community that connect workers with businesses willing to hire former inmates.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3762899/

https://www.prisonpolicy.org/research/mental_health/

https://www.samhsa.gov/gains-center