Why do we need programs like Passages?

The national rate of people returning to prison in the United states three years after release was reported by BOP in 2017 as 68%. Five years after release, 72% nationally return to prison. The state of South Dakota has remained steady for the last several years at around 43% for women. However, the practice of returning women to prison after relapse has changed so violations of parole have not necessarily reduced, in fact violators increased by 20% (DOC).

What are some of the other facts about incarceration that the public may not know?

South Dakota just a few years ago was 4th in the nation for the number of women going to prison per capita. In the 1980s, the number of women in prison was around 40. In 2019 year-end, there were 521 women in prison. 87% of the females were nonviolent crimes, and over 80% are on mental health medications. 80% of the women in prison have experienced abuse at some point in their lives, most as children.

What works for women’s reentry programs?

Women react differently to drugs and drug addictions. Many of the prisons’ drug and alcohol programs were designed for men and don’t work as well for women. Women react differently to drug use, and their recovery process is very different than men. In South Dakota, they are making progress in the programs they offer while incarcerated. The issue is they are not able to put those new tools to practice while incarcerated. The women need community involvement, new life skills, corrective thinking, new tactics for survival, employment and mental health assistance and mentors. More importantly, they need a new self image and a safe living environment.

Does a spiritual foundation and a Christian program make a difference?

Even the Health and Human Services at the Federal level are offering webinars for how Christian beliefs and spirituality can make a difference in mental health care. Knowing that they are forgiven and can receive grace makes a huge difference in the recovery process. All recovery programs have a spiritual component to them. Accepting Jesus and His unconditional love gives them a whole new outlook on life and the ability to forgive themselves and others. The women we have seen surrender to Christ are the ones that have the most long-term success after graduating from the program.

Do women have to be Christians to enter the Passages program?

When women apply to Passages and are interviewed, we do not ask them about their beliefs or if they are Christians. We do let them know that they are applying to a Christian faith-based program so that they are fully aware that it is a component of the program. We plant seeds and teach them basic Bible knowledge and principles so that they can make their own informed decision regarding becoming a Christian.