About Us

"Women Against Recidivism" (WAR) refers broadly to efforts led by women or organizations primarily focused on addressing recidivism among formerly incarcerated individuals. These individuals face unique challenges in the criminal justice system, such as trauma, substance abuse, economic hardship, lack of access to healthcare, and family separation, which can impact their ability to reintegrate into society.

Here’s an overview of how such initiatives typically work:

Reentry-centered programs often prioritize addressing trauma, mental health, and substance use issues that many individuals experienced prior to or during incarceration. Programs that provide trauma-informed counseling and support help individuals understand and manage personal challenges to reduce the likelihood of reoffending.

Individuals leaving prison often struggle to secure stable employment due to limited work history, skill gaps, or criminal records. Programs provide job training, educational support (like GED completion or college courses), and employment connections to aid in financial stability, which is crucial for reducing recidivism.

Stable housing is critical for individuals reentering society, but many face challenges accessing affordable and safe housing due to their criminal history. Women Against Recidivism Foundation initiatives often collaborate with housing organizations or run transitional housing programs where individuals can receive a structured, supportive living environment as they rebuild their lives.

Many individuals in the justice system are mothers, fathers and family reunification is often a priority for them post-incarceration. Programs focusing on women against recidivism foundation work to reconnect parents with their children, if appropriate, and provide parenting classes, family counseling, and legal support for custody matters.

Peer mentoring from formerly incarcerated individuals provides invaluable insights and emotional support to help navigate the challenges of reentry. By sharing lived experiences, mentors offer guidance, hope, and a sense of community, which can be motivating and reduce feelings of isolation.

Many recidivism programs also advocate for systemic changes that directly affect reforms in sentencing, bail practices, healthcare access, and support for individual's needs in prison. Through policy work, these organizations aim to reduce the prison population and address social justice issues that disproportionately impact individuals.