Pathways From Prison to College In Action: Unlocking Resources for Incarcerated Women
November 14 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Free
Thursday, November 14, 2024 | 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. PST
Register for the event
Join the Michelson 20MM Foundation on November 14, 2024, as we highlight organizations that are supporting systems-impacted women. Did you know that California is home to the world’s largest women’s prison, the Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) in Chowchilla? In fact, the state has three major women’s prisons: CCWF, Valley State Prison (VSPW) in the Central Valley, and the California Institution for Women (CIW) in Corona.
As of mid-2023 there are 3,337 people incarcerated in California’s women’s prisons, 70.8% less than in 2010! It’s vital that we remember these women and address their unique challenges.
Incarcerated women face distinct needs shaped by their life experiences, health care requirements, and social roles. They have specific healthcare needs, including reproductive health care, prenatal and postnatal care, menstrual hygiene management, and treatment for conditions like endometriosis or breast cancer. Mental health care is also crucial, as many women enter prison with a history of trauma, abuse, and other mental health disorders.
Family adds an additional consideration to women’s experience within the justice system. Many incarcerated women are primary caregivers and experience damaging separation from their children. Programs that support maintaining family connections, parenting classes, and family reunification services are critical for women.
During Pathways From Prison to College In Action, we will showcase the needs of incarcerated women and showcase organizations in the state that are addressing and closing the gap on these needs.
The “In Action” series highlights programs and organizations across the state that are implementing strategies from California’s Best Practices: Pathways From Prison to College. We are committed to ensuring that all currently and formerly incarcerated individuals have an equal opportunity to succeed as students and beyond.