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 Ernest Nate Benjamin Hello, friends, family, and supporters of Family & Friends of Individuals with Mental Illness (FFIMI). I wanted to share another piece for the FFIMI blog. I wrote to the powers that be a while ago, hoping to secure funding and training for clinicians to learn about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing… Continue reading From Trauma to Healing: Advocating for EMDR in Prisons
What are the long-term effects of excessive sentencing on individuals, families, and communities? We are sharing this resource for those who might be interested in an event aimed at promoting restorative justice, something that FFIMI is passionate about. Join a panel conversation to explore the state of excessive sentencing in the United States as well… Continue reading Excessive Sentencing and Mass Incarceration in Context – at Tufts Jonathan M. Tisch College of Civic Life
Why BSH Need to be Moved to the Department of Mental Health Hear Our Voices is a dramatic portrayal inspired by the real-life experiences of individuals residing at Bridgewater State Hospital (BSH) in Massachusetts. Crafted by an author intimately familiar with BSH and informed by the accounts of individuals with serious mental illness who have… Continue reading Hear our Voices
Exciting. Exhilarating. Energizing. This is the enthusiastic response of Sheriff Donna Buckley, the first female sheriff ever elected to Barnstable County, describing her mission to serve the community, families, and incarcerated individuals. She also carries a sense of solemn responsibility with a forward-thinking vision and a strong determination to ‘get it done’. Her goals are… Continue reading A Mission of Hope
Two significant bills are currently progressing through the Massachusetts legislative process, and we implore you to extend your support. These bills are essential for transferring Bridgewater State Hospital from the jurisdiction of the Department of Correction to the Department of Mental Health, ensuring appropriate care for individuals in need of mental health services. FFIMI stands… Continue reading Your crucial support is needed to advocate for transferring Bridgewater State Hospital to the Department of Mental Health, where it rightfully belongs
A Call to Oppose Wellpath's Contract Renewal in Massachusetts FFIMI commends Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey for addressing Wellpath's deficiencies as the Healthcare Provider for Massachusetts prisons. In a joint letter, the senators emphasized urgent improvements needed in the current healthcare system. Please refer to Senator Markey's press release here: Senators Markey, Warren, Durbin, Ossoff, Lawmakers… Continue reading Advocating for Improved Mental Health Services in Massachusetts Prisons: FFIMI Applauds Senators Warren and Markey’s Efforts
Massachusetts becomes fifth state in nation to make prison calls free
This legislative initiative is very important to FFIMI. Not only have we personally experienced the importance of family connections with our justice-involved loved ones, but research shows that family involvement is a key factor in reducing recidivism in the criminal justice system. An Act to Strengthen Visitation Rights of incarcerated people (Senate) and An Act… Continue reading FFIMI Supports Important Legislation
There is a significant lack of access to adequate mental health care in incarcerated settings. FFIMI could not agree more with NAMI's perspective of HELP, NOT HANDCUFFS. Sadly we all have loved ones who did not receive the mental health treatment they needed and became enmeshed in the criminal justice system. We share this repost… Continue reading Help, not Handcuffs
Family and Friends of Individuals with Mental Illness ~ Advocating for those who are Justice Involved 