Connecting Children to a Positive Future

On any given day there are an estimated 2533 adult residents of Jersey City behind bars.  These inmates have approximately 2674 minor children.  In order to reduce the cycle of intergenerational incarceration and mitigate the detrimental effects of living in a high crime community, New Jersey Association on Correction is reaching out to children between the ages of six and ten that reside in Jersey City.  Through weekly involvement in pro-social group activities, positive peer interactions and a monthly field trip, youth improve social skills, self-control and cognitive thinking abilities while reducing aggressive behavior.  These characteristics are valuable protective factors against future criminality.  Children that present with outstanding service needs in the course of their involvement in the group activities are provided with information, referrals and linkages to appropriate community programs. 

Children within the larger group that are identified as experiencing the incarceration of a primary parent are eligible for in-home case management services designed to stabilize the current household.  Families are linked to community services that can fully address outstanding needs.   Future Links also facilitates positive contact between the child and incarcerated parent, if appropriate, and involves the caretaker in monthly support groups.  In addition to case management, families are assessed by a mental health professional who then works with each family member to provide intervention and therapy services, as needed.  Families may participate in Future Links for up to a year.  Approximately 100 children participate in activities and 24 households will be involved in case management each year. 

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