LAS VEGAS – September 8, 2021 – Friends and Family of Incarcerated Persons in Las Vegas and Prison Families Anonymous in Long Island, New York – two non-profits supporting families of the incarcerated for a combined total of over 70 years – have joined together to form Prison Families Alliance (PFA). PFA will focus on helping the families left on the outside, serving a hidden sentence when a loved one is incarcerated.
Julia Lazareck headed Friends and Family of Incarcerated Persons, and Barbara Allan founded Prison Families Anonymous. The two met at the International Prisoners Family Conference and in 2019 realized they would be stronger together and reach more people across the country. Prison Families Alliance brings the East and West Coasts together, creating a national support and education system to enhance the quality of life of an often forgotten community.
PFA offers online peer support groups weekly covering all topics that affect families impacted by incarceration. Also, powerful speaking events and workshops for families, children, and those returning from prison or jail and integrating back into life outside the prison system.
More than 5 million children have or have had an incarcerated parent. The alliance offers programs for children to help them deal with the trauma and devastating loss that comes with losing a close family member to incarceration during critical development years. PFA’s goal is to continue developing resources and workshops for families and focus on addressing the specific needs of children.
“Over 45% of the population has had someone close to them in the prison system. Incarceration affects everyone, and those directly impacted typically don’t know what to do and how to talk about it. They’re entering a whole different world and can get information and support through our community,” said Lazareck.
“The prison family is the collateral damage of the carceral system. When someone you love has been arrested, tried and taken from you, you begin to do your time on the outside. We feel frightened, intimidated and isolated,” added Allan. “PFA is here to assure families that they do not need to travel this journey alone.”
To learn more about PFA and support programs for families and children of the incarcerated, contact Julia Lazareck at info@prisonfamiliesalliance.org or visit prisonfamiliesalliance.org
Media Contact
Company Name: Friends and Family of Incarcerated Persons
Contact Person: Media Relations
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Country: United States
Website: https://prisonfamiliesalliance.org/