I have the right NOT TO BE JUDGED, BLAMED OR LABELED because my parent is incarcerated. I have the right TO A LIFELONG RELATIONSHIP WITH MY PARENT

There are currently over 2 million people incarcerated in the U.S., and an additional 5 million under correctional supervision (on probation or parole).

Every incarcerated parent is more than the crime they have been charged with or convicted of, and, as Mommy or Daddy, they may be one of the most important people-if not the most important person-in the child’s life.

After my father was arrested, my aunt and grandparents thought not seeing him until I was 18 the best for me, and the courts agreed. Since then, I’ve had to wake up each day with the hurt of knowing I will not see my father

I love my dad. He means so much to me and I wouldn’t trade him for the world, not even for multi-billionaire Bill Gates. Am I still mad at him for being in jail instead of with me all those years?

Children of incarcerated parents may also face a number of other challenging circumstances. They may have experienced trauma related to their parent’s arrest or experiences leading up to it.

Provides parents and caregivers with bilingual (English & Spanish) tools to help children ages 3-8 cope with the many transitions related to a parent’s incarceration.

Visiting a parent in the county jail can help alleviate any fears a child may have about their parent’s welfare and can be calming and beneficial to most children’s emotional and psychological well-being.

The Osborne Association works in partnership with individuals, families, and communities to create opportunities for people affected by the criminal justice system to further develop their strengths and lead lives of responsibility and contribution.