NCJ Number
207490
Journal
Welfare Information Network Issue Notes Volume: 4 Issue: 13 Dated: December 2000 Pages: 1-9
Date Published
December 2000
Length
9 pages
Annotation
After suggesting why it is in the interest of States to provide services for low-income mothers with criminal records, this paper suggests ways in which States can assist this population and describes some innovative practices in six States.
Abstract
Helping low-income mothers with criminal records secure jobs can reduce financial and social burdens on government, employers, and society. States can use intermediary services, employer-education strategies, and business incentives to encourage the hiring of ex-offenders. States can also facilitate the self-sufficiency of ex-offenders by rescinding any prohibitions against ex-offenders participating in public-benefit programs, such as welfare assistance, food stamps, medicaid, and housing assistance. Low-income mothers who have been in custody also need help in caring for their children and maintaining their parental rights. States should assist in ensuring that incarcerated mothers have channels of contact with their children and that those caring for the children are adequately supported for childcare. This paper briefly describes innovative programs that focus on employment, parenting, and child-care services for ex-offenders that are designed to move them toward self-sufficiency. These programs are in Colorado, Illinois, Idaho, Indiana, New York, and Texas. 7 resource contacts and 15 resources contacts