Mentoring Children of Prisoners Program

Approximately two million children in the U.S. have at least one parent in a federal or state correction facility. These young people often struggle with the economic, social and emotional burdens of the incarceration. Programs such as ACF's Mentoring of Children of Prisoners help these young people by reducing their first-time drug and alcohol use, improving their relationships and academic performance and reducing the likelihood that they will initiate violence. Mentoring programs also provide children an opportunity to develop a trusting relationship with a supportive, caring adult and a stable environment that can promote healthy values and strong families.