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| Nation's first faith-based prison for women opens in Florida |
| By Join Together |
| Published: 05/03/2004 |
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Tampa, Fla., is the site of the nation's first faith-based prison for women, which combines life-skills classes with religious services and instruction, the Associated Press reported April 15. Female prisoners who volunteered to participate in the "faith- and character-based" program are transferred to the Hillsborough Correctional Institution from other prisons throughout the state. About 300 women are expected to be housed at the faith-based prison. "You don't have to have a faith to be there," said Franchatta Barber, director of classification and programs for the department. "We are focusing on the character, a change in character for the better. Religion doesn't have to be involved, but if you choose to have a religion as a part of your character development, you may do so." Women will receive instruction on anger-management, job skills, resume preparation, vocational classes, substance abuse, parenting, and strengthening marriages. To avoid legal challenges, no state money will be used to provide any religious instruction. Instead, volunteers will offer religious services and materials. Florida is also home to a faith-based prison for male inmates. The Lawtey Correctional Institution opened late last year and houses 748 adult male inmates representing 32 different faiths. |
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