This program will promote and expand services to incarcerated individuals who have children younger than age 1 8. Program activities include partnering with agencies and service providers to develop comprehensive services or expand services to incarcerated parents and their children; provide training
for the protection of correction officers to include addressing the safeguarding of children and families visiting incarcerated parents, and to support facilities in rural areas that meet the needs of incarcerated parents and their minor children.
OJJDP will give priority consideration to applicants that have policies, practices, and/or procedures in place that ensure the best interest of the child in facilitating the relationship between the incarcerated parent and child, such as the appointment of a guardian ad litem or a court-appointed special advocate.
This initiative will enhance public safety, ensure that youth are held appropriately accountable to both victims and communities, and empower youth to live productive, law-abiding lives.