Global Crisis of Prisoners

We’re on a mission to transform the lives of prisoners, their families, and victims of crime through a global network of more than 100 ministry partners, because we envision a world where the cycle of crime is broken, and lives are restored through Jesus’s love.

Learn About the Global Crisis

The Problem of Punishment

It can be easy to dismiss the idea of caring for prisoners, but broken prison systems help perpetuate growing crime rates and prison populations. The problem of punishment is clear: Prisoners who don’t have effective reform programs turn into ex-prisoners who lack acceptable, productive ways to live outside of prison.

Lengthy Pre-trial Detention

Millions of prisoners are held in crowded, inhumane conditions as they wait for trial. They often wait longer than the maximum sentence they could receive if found guilty.

Unjust Imprisonment

Many men and women are imprisoned for their political opinions, religious beliefs, petty crime, or because they have been wrongfully accused.

Punitive Punishment

Many justice systems focus on punishment for wrongdoings, rather than creating rehabilitative environments where prisoners can learn personal responsibility for their behavior.

Isolation from Society

Prisoners are isolated, rejected, and cut off from society. Many have never experienced the love of Jesus or encountered his transformational message of hope.

Global Crime Statistics

• 10.8 million prisoners worldwide
• 8.7 million prisoners are incarcerated outside the United States
• 75% of prisoners will re-offend and go back to prison within 5 years
• 10 million children have a parent in prison and are at risk of abuse and exploitation
• 1 million children of prisoners are abandoned, live in unsafe conditions, and are at risk of being trafficked