In 1994, prisoners in the United States were denied access to federal Pell Grants, which had previously allowed them to pursue post-secondary education while behind bars.

This program enabled thousands of prisoners to get an education while in prison, giving them a chance to improve themselves and get a step up before they were released back into society. More than 700,000 prisoners are freed each years in the United States, and right now 70% of them are arrested again within three years. We can chance this by offering second chances and support for prisoners before and after release.

Sign the petition below to call on Congress to restore Pell Grants for prisoners. The impact will be less crime and a more educated, productive workforce.

Photo Credit: Our Lady of Disgrace