"I was in prison and you came to visit me," (Matthew 25:36c, NIV).
What makes a person truly free? Can people change? Does good prevail? Everyday these tough questions seem to become more prevalent as streets seem less safe, crime more abundant and prisons overcrowded. It is evident these are questions we must face.
Although there are no easy fixes, The Salvation Army believes there are positive answers and solutions to address these issues. We believe people can, and do, change, and it starts with the heart. This belief is at the core of The Salvation Army's Correctional Services. It is a ministry based on the idea that people are not irredeemable, but they must be shown the way, beginning with compassion. Demonstrating to people they aren't abandoned in the abyss of consequences, The Salvation Army reaches out to individuals who are imprisoned and families left behind. The correctional ministry represents a continuum of Christian compassion and care.
A Bridge to New Life
Salvation Army personnel and volunteers go into the prisons to visit those incarcerated. They form bridges to the outside and relationships of support. In many prisons The Salvation Army holds worship services and Bible studies, and thousands of inmates enroll each year in correspondence Bible studies. Written in several languages specifically for use in prisons, these lessons focus on such biblical values as confession, forgiveness and responsibility. Counselors who grade the lessons provide direction and encouragement to the inmates in their spiritual quest. Nearly 75 percent of those who enroll complete the courses, and in the process many accept Christ as their personal Savior.
The Salvation Army often offers specialized programs that foster self-esteem, teach vocational and life skills, and introduce services such as childcare and temporary housing options available when re-entering society's mainstream. Another vital ministry is anger management courses to help prisoners deal more effectively with their emotions, change destructive habits and form new perspectives.
In addition, The Salvation Army offers special programs to keep inmates connected with their families such as The Salvation Army's partnership program with Hallmark Inc. to provide inmates with Hallmark cards to send home. Hallmark Inc. donates the cards to The Salvation Army. They are then sorted and upon request from prison administration or chaplain sent to the prison for only the cost of shipping.
The Salvation Army's commitment to inmates continues after incarceration. Sometimes when a person is paroled they have their physical freedom but little else-no home, no money, no transportation, no clothes and no job. With so many obstacles, the transition back into society can be daunting. In response, The Salvation Army operates halfway houses across the nation. These shelters are equipped with counselors and other resources to help them build new lives.
Seasonal Encouragement
Christmas is one of the most difficult times for an inmate to be in jail, away from family and friends. In many places The Salvation Army makes special visits to prisons during the month of December to spread a little "Christmas Joy." Salvation Army brass band ensembles play a few carols for the prisoners to sing, the Christmas story is read and a special gift is given to each inmate, letting them know someone cares and they are not forgotten.
Help for Families
The correctional ministry extends to the inmates' families. Many turn to The Salvation Army for basic services such as food, clothing and utility assistance. At Christmas thousands of children receive gifts, chosen by their incarcerated parents, through The Salvation Army. The card is signed by the parent with no mention of the organization. Children are given the opportunity to attend summer camps and retreats where they can spend time with other children of inmates and enjoy fun and refreshment. In some locations, The Salvation Army acts as a facilitator for support groups where families share their struggles and their hope. In addition, The Salvation Army often offers transportation to and from jails so family members can visit their loved ones.
A Brighter Future
What has become cutting-edge in society's crime prevention programs is second nature to The Salvation Army. For years we've known keeping kids off the streets and involved in meaningful, fun activities decreases their chances of getting involved in crime. That's why at The Salvation Army there are all kinds of youth programs from homework clubs to basketball leagues to brass bands. It helps keep youth away from bad influences, bad decisions.
The Salvation Army also ministers to young people already in trouble. In some locations The Salvation Army runs nurturing, family-like residences for minors referred by the juvenile court and other organizations. They provide safe havens for learning, growth and change. The Salvation Army also runs week-long camps for troubled youth. These adventures blend activities such as swimming, hiking and cookouts with character-building classes. Counselors and law enforcement officers participate, and kids begin to see there are real people who care about them and their community.
The way to more fulfilling lives, a better society and a brighter future is change. It's what Salvation Army Correctional Services is all about.
If you have questions about regulations, inmates, family or victim services click on the link provided to be directed to the DOC website.
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