How long should felons be punished?

Discrimination comes in many forms. And laws are created to protect people from certain types of it. With felons its a rough ride . We are seen as people who have broken the laws, and therefore are ousted from society. Its called a life long sentence, even though you have completed your sentencing requirements, rehabilitated yourself and try to put the past where it lies, society is unforgiving. We cannot find employers to hire us , nor can we get an apartment to live. Some felons are still just good ole folk who would like the chance to able to support their families. We get doors  slammed in our faces because of the big bold word on the application saying FELON. They seen nothing past that word.We are actually being shunned by the same society that accepted us until we got caught. All we want are jobs and places to live. We want nothing for free, no hand outs, and absolutely no pity. We want a chance to right our situations and be productive in society again. When will society allow felons to be able to support their families again?