NCJ Number
194686
Date Published
2002
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This is the final progress report for the FamilyWorks Fathers in Prison Initiative, a program designed to improve parenting and family life for inmates, former inmates, and their families in New York.
Abstract
A total of 207 inmates participated in the Basic and Advanced Parenting Skills Classes at Woodbourne, Shawangunk, and Sing Sing correctional facilities, as well as the domestic violence class at Sing Sing. Ninety-two inmates graduated from the classes during this reporting period, showing an overall success rate of 65 percent. In-prison counseling, discharge planning, advocacy, and other services were accessed by 139 inmates in 294 encounters. A total of 27 inmates attempted to increase contact with their children, and 9 had some measure of success. Thirty-eight men sought out and received post-release services, including counseling, referrals to education and employment services, and a new post-release support group. The Family Resource Center Hotline received 173 calls from former inmates, prison family members, and community-based organizations. FamilyWorks staff regularly conduct outreach to family members on behalf of inmates receiving in-prison services. In this reporting period, staff contacted family members on behalf of 23 inmates. Thirteen of these attempts resulted in contact with a family member, and 10 family members received counseling from FamilyWorks staff. Other support services were offered to family members in addition to counseling. FamilyWorks staff are occasionally asked to assist clients in navigating the complex bureaucracies of foster care agencies that may be responsible for their children. Eight clients requested and received this service during this reporting period. Three case studies illustrate how FamilyWorks staff assist inmates in dealing with their relationships with their children and the children's caregivers, as well as other family members. 6 tables