Our Stories

Through testimonials and stories, the unique needs of formerly incarcerated women — which aren’t as frequently discussed as those of men — and their children can finally be heard.

Hamdiya Cooks-Abdullah
Hamdiya Cooks-Abdullah
Hamdiya Cooks-Abdullah
Hamdiya served 20 years in federal prison and fought for Muslim prisoners in the struggle to honor their religious practices. Hamdiya reflects on how her incarceration devastated her family and on the...
Amber Helphingstine
Amber Helphingstine
Amber Helphingstine
Amber shares her experiences of Skid Row where she suffered physical and sexual assault. While incarcerated, Amber read ‘Becoming Ms. Burton’ by Susan Burton and it offered renewed hope for her fu...
Michelle Perkins
Michelle Perkins
Michelle Perkins
While serving her second conviction, Michelle realized she was ready to choose a different life. She reentered society determined to work on herself and build upon the education she received in prison...
Stephanie Jeffcoat
Stephanie Jeffcoat
Stephanie Jeffcoat
Stephanie found herself in and out of prison due to drug addiction. While incarcerated, Stephanie’s youngest daughter was adopted out without notice. Stephanie tried to get answers but because her p...
LaTanya Reed
LaTanya Reed
LaTanya Reed
LaTanya lost her three children because of substance abuse. After LaTanya’s children were taken away, she fell harder into her addiction and hit rock bottom. After years of struggling with addiction...
Angela Bass
Angela Bass
Angela Bass
While serving a seven-year term, Angela Bass struggled to stay connected with her son. Thirteen years sober, she has dedicated her entire life to service. She is currently trying to regain visitation ...
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