National Reunification Month: Keeping Families Together
Thanks to National Reunification Month, observed every June, there is more emphasis on the importance of keeping families together. The absence of a family member due to incarceration can be an emotional experience, and the reunion may include a mix of feelings as well. Whether welcoming back a child, parent, or partner, or trying to readjust to being home, there are bound to be some challenges. With preparation and understanding, you can make the process a more seamless and comfortable one for everyone involved.
Start the Reunification Process Before Release
Before release, there are a few steps you can take to make the transition easier:
- Keep Open Communication
The first step to a strong family connection is to maintain contact during incarceration through regular phone calls, letters, and visitation. Discussing what is happening in everyday life on the outside keeps those incarcerated involved and reinforces the fact that they still have an active role in the family and in making family decisions.
Ask the institution about their policies on approved mail and visitation requirements. You may be able to use Piegonly, a low-cost service to send letters, photos, calls, and postcards to let your loved one know that they are an integral part of the family unit.
2. Find Reentry Support Resources
Upon release, there may be an adjustment period to life in the community. Having freedom to come and go, make decisions, participate in social situations, and be accountable are exciting, but may also be overwhelming. Help lighten the load by locating local resources, such as support groups or a reentry mentor. Having a close support system of friends and family can also make the transition easier. This worksheet is a great tool to sort out which relationships may need some strengthening.
3. Find Reentry Support Resources
Depending on the circumstances and length of incarceration, reintroducing a family member can shift the current dynamic. It may be helpful to have a conversation with other members of the family before the homecoming to address any questions or concerns. Change is to be expected, but open communication and understanding can ease the process. If there are children involved, the books Daddy’s Coming Home and Mommy’s Coming Home can be great resources.
Family Reunification Resources
Once you or your loved one are back home, there is still work to be done. It is likely that inter-family relationships have changed during the period of incarceration, and it will take time before things feel normal again. There are plenty of support resources available to help navigate through these changes.
- Assisting Families of Inmates offers virtual Family Support Groups that provide support to adults impacted by the incarceration of a loved one. The meetings take place on the second Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. EST. Click here to register.
- Sesame Workshop has resources for children with parents who have been incarcerated, including videos and workbooks.
- Rainbows For All Children offers helpful resources such as books, videos, and more, focused on providing support to children affected by incarcerated parents.
Additional Tips to Reconnect with Your Family
- Set Expectations Up Front: It is important to discuss expectations sooner rather than later. What might have changed since before their incarceration? Are there going to be any curfews or rules in place? Do you wish to instill family traditions, such as a weekly game night or dinner? What kind of support are you willing to extend?
- Spend Quality Time Together: Quality time is a great way to rebuild connections, strengthen trust, and demonstrate family as a priority. Try to choose a dedicated day every week where the family can do something together.
Read our blog for more tips and advice on how to rebuild a relationship with your family.
