CYCLE OF INCARCERATION
OUR APPROACH
Oklahoma has the highest rate of female incarceration in the nation. The consequences of incarceration and familial separation are devastating for both mothers and their children. In many cases, prison is not cost-effective, does not enhance public safety, fails to promote true rehabilitation and places children at far greater risk of entering the criminal justice system. For these reasons, GKFF® invests in initiatives to reduce the number of women sent to prison by offering alternatives to incarceration, targeted family supports and advocacy efforts.
Oklahoma incarcerates more women per capita than any other state in the nation at a rate of 142 per 100,000. In any given year, Oklahoma’s rate is double the U.S. average.
Approximately 26,000 Oklahoma children have a parent in prison.
PURPOSE
The majority of the prison population is comprised of low-level offenders charged with drug-related crimes. Without meaningful reform, the cycle of generational incarceration will only worsen. GKFF works to find alternative solutions to incarceration and promote effective rehabilitation programs that will improve the lives of at-risk families and young children.
PROJECTS
Incarceration has long-reaching effects beyond the incarcerated individual. GKFF supports programs that break the cycle of incarceration to reduce the negative impact on Oklahoma families and communities.
Women In Recovery
Women in Recovery (WIR) is an evidence-based alternative to incarceration program for women facing significant prison sentences in Tulsa County. The program, operated by Family and Children’s Services, includes more than a year of gender-specific, trauma-informed mental health and substance abuse treatment and comprehensive employment and family reunification services. WIR provides participants an opportunity to successfully return to their families and communities. Since 2009, WIR has helped nearly 700 women and more than 1,400 children.
Center for Employment Opportunities
Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) is a statewide program that provides employment services to people with recent criminal convictions. Through life-skills education, transitional work, job placement and retention services, CEO helps participants develop behaviors and skills necessary to enter the workforce. CEO helps to create stability for participants and their families.
CYCLE OF INCARCERATION FEATURES
'Bad moms' or women in need of help? Oklahoma rethinks view of female inmates.
Mothers in Prison
Oklahoma's Crisis: Too Many Women Behind Bars
Get out of Jail, Inc.
