Families in Crisis, Inc.

Correctional experts recognize that visits from loved ones diminishes the effects of institutionalization, improves inmate behavior and creates an incentive to participate in rehabilitative services. However, traditional visitation is not effective for offenders to maintain their relationships when serving long sentences.

Research shows that family focused correctional programs help to preserve and strengthen family ties and increase the likelihood of release success. However, prisoners who serve long sentences are more at risk to loose contact with their families.

Families in Crisis, Inc.’s Family Time Program provides comprehensive and meaningful services to help offender families facing a long separation stay connected.

Program Description

The Agency offers a multi-component program that targets inmates who are serving long sentences and their families. Workers facilitate educational and support groups for prisoners that teach the skills necessary to be active and involved father/partners. A meaningful connection to families serves as a strong motivator for positive change.

Workers also conduct home visits with families to explain the benefits of the program, address the family’s hopes and fears and provide case management services to meet basic needs.

Extended visitation and family activities are provided that foster positive relations and assist families fulfill their roles and responsibilities.

Key Features

• Parent education and family living classes for offenders
• On-going support groups to maintain positive change
• Extended visiting opportunities
• Home-based services to the families

Results

• Incarcerated men are active fathers and partners and contribute to positive family living
• Inmates with strong family ties are easier to manage in a correctional setting
• Inmates maintain family ties and have a family to return to upon release which increases the likelihood of successful re-entry
• Prisoner’s children do better in school, family and community

Locations