Family Services Program
The Department of Corrections (DOC) acknowledges the vital role families play in an incarcerated individual's life, and the reentry process. It is the goal of the Family Services Program to identify the challenges faced by families impacted by incarceration, and to provide support and services relative to family needs.
Research has shown maintaining and strengthening family ties positively affects post prison outcomes and decreases recidivism. Strengthening family ties helps individuals to effectively reenter the community, helps families reunify, and supports children by the inclusion of a positive role model in the household. Events and activities are planned to foster closeness between individuals under supervision and their families during critical times.
Family Communications
The Department of Corrections is committed to providing up-to-date communications to families of incarcerated individuals.
Family Services Unit
Sign up to receive facility specific notifications for where your loved one is housed, and/or to receive notifications from the Family Services Unit.
DOC Headquarters
Sign up to receive agency-wide messages, alerts, updates and more for families and loved ones directly from DOC Headquarters.
Family-Centered Programming
Family-centered programming is intended to reduce the likelihood of committing new crimes (i.e., reduce recidivism), encourage positive social interactions, unify families, strengthen family bonds, and assist families in breaking the cycle of intergenerational incarceration. The programming provided is culturally relevant, gender responsive, and informative. These services include:
- Parenting classes
- Family-centered events and activities
- Assistance with reunification
- Child support reduction services
- Referrals to other social services and support
Spouses and partners are welcome to participate in programs when appropriate. Please ask your loved one's Classification Counselor or Community Corrections Officer for specifics.