The retributive justice system is viewed as an expensive, unjust, and immoral failure. Further, the efficacy of prisons is questioned with respect to deterrence, protection of society, offender rehabilitation, and punishment. Reasons why Canadian officials have been reluctant to change the retributive nature of the correctional system are discussed. Alternatives to prison are examined that include housing alternatives, community supervision, restoration models based on what the offender can give back to the community or the victim, treatment, legal restraint remedies, and cooperative solutions that involve offenders. Weaknesses of alternatives to prison are noted, and a transformative justice approach is proposed that engages offenders, victims, and the community and that aims to treat crime as an opportunity to find healing for both offenders and victims. 74 references, 4 tables, and 3 figures