Women Offender Programs and Issues

Exemplary Community Programs For Federally Sentenced Women : A Literature Review

FSW N°-27

Submitted by :
Mia Dauvergne-Latimer

Federally Sentenced Women Program

September 1995

RTF

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Importance Of Assisting FSW

Profile Of The Female Offender

Research Studies Of Female Offenders
I. Lives and Futures (date unknown)
II. Creative Alternatives to Recidivism (1987)
III. The Release Study (1991)

Unique Circumstances Of Women

Principles Of Successful Programming For FSW

1. Empowerment
2. Meaningful and Responsible Choices
3. Respect and Dignity
4. Supportive Environment
5. Shared Responsibility

Criteria For Effective Programming For FSW

1. Women-Centred Principles
2. Principles of Women's Education
3. Diversity
4. Analytical Approach
5. Program Structure
6. Program Success

Exemplary Programs

Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies
Coverdale Centre: Halifax, Nova Scotia
Grant House: Toronto, Ontario
Council on Prostitution Alternatives: Portland, Oregon
The Program for Female Offenders: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Genesis II for Women, Inc.: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Community Connection Resource Centre: San Diego, California
Womencare, Inc.: New York, New York

Recommendations

Conclusion

Bibliography

The points of view expressed in this paper are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and policies of the Correctional Service of Canada.