Support Funding for Families Affected by Incarceration

In 2019, the Oregon legislature did not include funding to support the YWCA’s Family Preservation Project. This session we have an opportunity to invest state resources to a key program that not only keeps families connected, but encourages better outcomes for mamas and children. In fact, research has shown that strong family support is a key factor in successful re-entry for parents.

While changes in the criminal justice system will take years, and will need to include culture change and bold policy change – we believe a system that seeks justice and heals trauma is possible. The Family Preservation Project is one part of the systems change needed to reduce childhood trauma, encourage family connection and support the navigation of child-welfare systems for families affected by incarceration.