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An inmate is behind bars for the third time. Prior incarcerations haven’t changed his
behavior; he continues to be arrested for the same thing and doesn’t seem to have
any motivation to change his life. By now, not even his family believes that things can
change.
But perhaps the most significant damage is that done to his children. One incarceration
of a parent creates confusion, distrust and anger; when repeated, the consequences are
devastating. What if repairing these damaged relationships
and strengthening family bonds could interrupt the negative cycle for both the inmate AND
the children. What would be the impact on all of their lives?
Research has shown that connections to family can make a real difference for inmates, motivating
them while they are in jail, providing a place to live when they get out, reconnecting them
to work, and encouraging them in the crucial first days and months after they are released.
Research also shows how these positive connections can improve outcomes for the children of incarcerated
parents.
Addressing these dual goals of reducing recidivism and improving outcomes for children and families
was what the Allegheny County Jail Collaborative set out to do in 2009.
With support from the US Department of Justice, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and a number
of local foundations, the Reentry Program was launched in the Allegheny County Jail.
Based on national research, and due in large part to a local effort spearheaded by the
Pittsburgh Child Guidance Foundation, the program included family support as a key component.
Anecdotal reports indicate that the program has been successful on every level. Staff
describe more positive interactions between children and their incarcerated parents; better
behavior on the part of inmates; repaired relationships between inmates and their families;
smoother re-entry into the community; and even a cultural shift within the jail. Correctional
Officers have seen the change in the inmates and the effect on children and families. Skeptical
at first, they are now the program’s biggest supporters.
To understand the full impact of the Reentry Program, the Jail Collaborative commissioned
a study by the Urban Institute, which will be completed later this year.
But there is no doubt on the part of the staff that the program has already made a difference.
Inmates are connecting with family members of all generations, and those family members
are supporting them and helping them to succeed and stay out of jail. Stronger connections
on the outside are translating into fewer familiar faces walking back through the jail
doors. To learn more about the Family Support Program,
please read the full report: The Bridge to Home: The Allegheny County Jail Collaborative’s
Family Support Initiative