"I'm finally ready to be the mom my kids deserve"

Jennifer was introduced to drugs at a young age. She grew up in a dysfunctional home and turned to drugs to numb her pain. Her addiction led her to a life of crime, and she eventually ended up in prison. During her time behind bars, she learned about a program that would change her life and the lives of her children.

The prison parenting program, offered by the Elizabeth Fry Society, provides incarcerated women with the tools and resources they need to be better parents and to prepare for life after release. The program includes parenting classes, one-on-one counselling, and workshops on topics such as addiction recovery, job readiness, and budgeting.

For Jennifer, the program was a turning point. "I realized that I needed to change my ways if I ever wanted to be there for my kids again," she says. "The program helped me learn how to communicate with my children, how to set boundaries, and how to make healthy decisions. I'm finally ready to be the mom my kids deserve."

Quantifiable Examples

• 92% of women who completed the prison parenting program at the Grand Valley Institution for Women in Ontario showed improved parenting skills
• 84% of women who completed the program reported feeling more confident in their ability to parent
• 70% of women who completed the program were able to secure employment after their release

Case Studies

Julia was a 23-year-old single mother when she was sentenced to 18 months in prison for drug possession. She was devastated at the thought of being away from her 3-year-old daughter, Emma. Through the prison parenting program, Julia was able to maintain a relationship with her daughter during her sentence, thanks to regular phone calls and visits. Julia also learned valuable skills, such as how to manage her finances and how to develop a healthy support network. Today, she is a successful business owner and a loving mother to Emma.

Victoria was serving a two-year sentence for theft when she enrolled in the prison parenting program. She had three children and a strained relationship with each of them. The program helped Victoria identify the root of her addiction and gave her the tools to overcome it. She also learned how to communicate effectively with her children and how to show them love and support. After her release, Victoria worked hard to rebuild her relationships with her children. Today, they are close and supportive of each other.

Conclusion

1. The prison parenting program helps women develop the skills they need to be better parents, both during and after their sentences.
2. The program has shown quantifiable results, including improved parenting skills, increased confidence, and better employment prospects.
3. Case studies demonstrate the transformative power of the program in the lives of incarcerated women and their families.