In Canada, and globally, women are the fastest-growing population in prisons (Sawyer, 2018). Incarcerated mothers face unique challenges that often erode their maternal identity and hinder the development of healthy mother-child attachments. The current system lacks adequate support mechanisms to address these issues, leaving many incarcerated mothers and their children in a cycle of disadvantage. It is estimated that two-thirds of incarcerated women are mothers, and roughly 70% of mothers are mothers of minor children (Patner et al., 2022). 

We propose the creation of a comprehensive program designed specifically to meet the needs of mothers and their children during- and post-incarceration. This program should provide sufficient support, remove barriers that undermine maternal identity, and foster healthy mother-child relationships while also promoting future parenting post-release.

Such initiatives have been proven effective elsewhere; for instance, the Mother-Child program. This has been effective in multiple cities such as Mapleridge, BC, Kitchener, ON, and Edmonton which has shown positive results in maintaining family bonds (National Resource Center on Children & Families of the Incarcerated).

By implementing this proposed program, we can help ensure that incarceration does not mean severing familial ties or compromising one's role as a parent. We can create an environment where rehabilitation includes preserving and strengthening family relationships - an essential component for successful reintegration into society post-release.

Please join us in calling for this change by signing this petition today.