JEFFERSON CITY, MO – After re-establishing family orientation meetings about a year-and-a-half ago at three male diagnostic centers, the Missouri Department of  Corrections says interest remains strong in the program. According to the MSDOC, about 2,473 family members, who represent 1,576 inmates, participated in the meetings between January 2005 and June 2006.
 
The meetings, which last about an hour, are held once a month at each center and covers issues including the diagnostic process, classification, transfers, release information, visitation, telephone access, access to medical and mental health care, and religious, education, work and treatment programs. Afterwards, families are allowed to visit with inmates.

“We've seen a high improvement in customer service because of the family orientation meetings. The number of phone calls and inquiries about department practices has decreased significantly,” says Constituent Services Officer Lisa Jones.