Posts by Women's Prison Association
Incarcerating Mothers Creates a Family Crisis
Maternal incarceration is a widespread and significant issue in the United States. Nearly 80% of women in jail are mothers and primary caregivers, and many are single parents (Source: Vera…
Read MoreMeet Aisha Elliott, WPA’s Chief Program Officer and Mission-Driven Strategist
Aisha Elliott has joined the Women’s Prison Association (WPA) as the Chief Program Officer, bringing over two decades of experience in criminal legal system reform. Her extensive experience positions her…
Read MoreMental Health Challenges Faced by Justice-Impacted Women
Women impacted by the criminal legal system face layered expectations: secure stable housing, meet supervision requirements, reunify with children, and gain employment. These demands are often made without regard for…
Read MoreWhy Culturally-Inclusive, Trauma-Informed Clinical Care Matters
Culturally-inclusive. Trauma-informed. These aren’t just buzzwords—they’re principles built into our history and mission. Since 1845, the Women’s Prison Association (WPA) has adapted to the evolving needs of the populations we…
Read MoreCelebrating the Life and Legacy of Nancy Carr, Former WPA Board President
We celebrate the life and legacy of Nancy Carr, a former Board President of WPA committed to community and service, who passed away at the age 90. Nancy served on…
Read MoreClosing Rikers Island: Why Community-Based Solutions Are Critical Investments
Closing Rikers Island doesn’t just mean shutting down the facilities—it’s about investing in prevention and true public safety. Alongside partner organizations, we’re urging the city to expand proven initiatives that…
Read MoreAnnual Report 2023-2024: The Impact of Our Critical Work
WPA is excited to share our 2023-2024 Annual Report, highlighting the past year of meaningful opportunities and lasting change created for those impacted by incarceration. As we embark on a new chapter…
Read MoreHear from a WPA Clinical Intern, Fatoumata Magassa
Fatoumata Magassa (she/her) is passionate about bringing trauma-informed care into client-centered counseling at jails and prisons, advocating for the rights of incarcerated individuals, and helping her clients find hope and…
Read MoreHow We Empower Formerly Incarcerated Women with Transformative Opportunities through Workforce Development
Every woman deserves meaningful opportunities that empower her to take charge of her life. At the Women’s Prison Association (WPA), our Workforce Development program gives formerly incarcerated women the resources…
Read MoreTestimony of Meg Egan, CEO of the Women’s Prison Association, for the Committee on Criminal Justice Preliminary Budget Hearing
You can watch CEO Meg Egan’s testimony here. The transcript is provided below. March 7, 2025 Good afternoon, my name is Meg Egan, and it is my great honor and…
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