The women of Crossroads possess incredible strength and resilience upon release from prison. Before joining the Crossroads family, they must display clear desire and initiative to turn their lives around and complete our program. In the state of California, 59% of all women released from prison return to prison within three years. In contrast, 86% of Crossroads graduates are self-sustaining after six years!

Crossroads, Inc. helps women who have experienced significant hardship. In 2003, 57% of all women in California’s prisons had been physically or sexually abused prior to incarceration. 80% suffered from substance abuse problems, and 27% were receiving therapy or counseling for mental health issues. A total of 30% were receiving welfare assistance, and 64% were living with their children prior to incarceration. Of those 64%, almost half were living in single households. Of all women entering prison in 2003, 87% were convicted of non-violent drug or property crimes.*

Crossroads’ program helps its participants cope with issues faced upon release in an effective and successful manner. Counseling and education are provided in a group setting and include, but are not limited to, substance abuse issues, relapse prevention, anger management, relationships and family life, self-esteem, basic life skills, food preparation (including planning, shopping, and preparing healthy meals), and home management. Women are also taught money management skills: they are required to find employment, open a savings account, and save a minimum of 75% of their income. This program has proved to be extremely effective, as shown by the very high rate of success of our graduates.

Crossroads women also participate in a variety of inventive activities such as art, creative writing, and gardening. Samples will be available for viewing shortly, please return soon to see them!

Statistics taken from “Breaking the Barriers for Women on Parole,” A report by the State of California Little Hoover Commission