Incarceration is often defined by loss—the loss of freedom, autonomy, connection, and purpose. But in certain prisons, programs exist that challenge this stark reality, offering opportunities for growth, healing, and service. One such program is the American VetDogs Prison Puppy Program, which allows incarcerated individuals to raise and train service dogs that will eventually assist… Continue reading The Transformative Power of the Prison Puppy Program
At FFIMI, we are committed to learning from global approaches that prioritize dignity, mental health, and rehabilitation for incarcerated individuals. The article we’re sharing today highlights the progressive Nordic prison model, which emphasizes humane treatment and rehabilitation—an approach that stands in stark contrast to the punitive conditions found in many U.S. prisons, especially for those… Continue reading Green Space in Prison: Rehabilitation through Beautification
By Benjamin Walsh Years go by, and I don't understand my place here or what this is—what prison is. Is it punishment? Correction? Restoration? Hell? Just a warehouse? All those things at various times? The department is a living contradiction of aims. It needs strong leadership to bring it into becoming something that actually resembles… Continue reading A Reflection from the Inside: The Power of Leadership and the Opportunity for Cultural Shift in the Massachusetts DOC
What is BH-JI? BH-JI is a MassHealth program that helps people leaving jail or prison, people who have recently left jail or prison, people on parole, and people on probation to connect with behavioral health services and social supports in the community. BH-JI is a partnership between the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human… Continue reading Helpful MassHealth Resource: Behavioral Health-Justice Involved (BH-JI)
FFIMI Director, Donna Winant, was interviewed by Leonna Abraham Brandao's of Blog Talk Radio/Shedding Light. Leonna's passion is to get people talking and working together to find solutions to social justice issues, including the many that exist in the criminal justice system. Donna shared about FFIMI's mission and goal to be the voice of justice involved… Continue reading Shedding Light Podcast
By Kelli South is the research associate at the Treatment Advocacy Center. Incarcerated individuals with serious mental illness are much more likely to be placed in solitary confinement compared to incarcerated individuals without serious mental illness. There is a wealth of research that shows the deleterious effects that solitary confinement can have on an individual, including increasing rates of depression, anxiety and… Continue reading Alternative to Solitary Confinement Offers Promising Results for Inmates
Family and Friends of Individuals with Mental Illness ~ Advocating for those who are Justice Involved 