The Child’s Journey®
One of the most important things we do is help children and families maintain a connection to their incarcerated parent. And nothing brings us more joy than when children, like 12-year-old Esther in Rwanda, and their parent reunite.
In Rwanda, many challenges, such as distance, financial resources, and even legal visitation restrictions, inhibit children from visiting a parent who is in prison. Many children have not seen their parents in years, if ever. Esther was one of those children.
“I often dreamed of looking in my father’s eyes,” says Esther. “I am thankful my dreams became real . . . I hope to see him again.”
Esther is grateful to Prison Fellowship in Rwanda, who made this reunion possible. She knows from experience that maintaining this relationship is vital to her wellbeing.
“Studies show children who maintain a connection with their incarcerated parent report higher feelings of safety, stability, and overall emotional wellbeing,” says International Director of Child Sponsorship Adam Hutchinson. “There is always a reduced likelihood of a parent reoffending after release, meaning families are stronger and children are better cared for.
When you partner with Prison Fellowship International, you become a vital part of this important work taking place in 116 countries.