The personal story that fuels this campaign for change begins at Wasco State Prison, of the three family units available, two have been taken over by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) for purposes other than their original function. This misuse of facilities is now limiting family members' ability to visit their incarcerated loved ones serving sentences within the prison and causing a backlog of visiting taking 6 months.
One unit has been converted into a storage unit, while another serves as a dialysis center. Consequently, families are left with only one unit for visiting, severely restricting the availability and accessibility for those longing to maintain valuable family connections. An easily implemented solution already present on-site could resolve this issue. CDCR has the option to convert one of the readily available storage containers at Wasco Prison into a storage unit — a cost-effective solution that honours the original intention of these spaces. Alternatively, another viable solution would be relocating the dialysis center or opening a modular unit similar to the one they have used for X-rays in the past. 

Family visits, undeniably, play a crucial role in moral improvement and rehabilitation for prisoners. Indeed, the National Institute of Justice confirms strong family ties during imprisonment to be associated with reduced recidivism. Yet, by commandeering two out of the three family visit units in Wasco State Prison, CDCR is compromising the rehabilitative journey for those imprisoned within its walls.

Reinstating these family units isn't simply a matter of convenience, but of justice and humanity. Join the call for the reallocation and optimal use of family units. Let's ensure that Wasco State Prison honors its commitment to facilitating family visits. Please sign this petition today.