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Connecting Children and Incarcerated Fathers in Texas

In October 2007, the InnerChange Freedom Initiative (IFI) in Texas began a new programme called Storybook Dads. Managed by current inmates, this programme allows men in prison to record their voices reading children’s books.

IFI Iowa Receives a New Blow

In February, the Iowa Department of Corrections (DOC) announced that it will cancel the contract for the InnerChange Freedom Initiative. In making the decision, prison officials cited contract provision that allows the DOC to cancel the programme if the enrolment is less than 60 participants. With 27 participants graduating on March 14, 2008, this occurred.

PF USA Receives Favourable Decision in IFI Lawsuit

PFUSA has been defending their Community of Restoration, called InnerChange Freedom Initiative IFI), against claims that it violates the US Constitution’s provisions about church and state. Last year a trial court ruled that IFI’s contract with the Iowa Department of Corrections was unconstitutional and demanded not only that the program be closed down, but also that IFI reimburse the state government $1.5 million dollars). This was appealed to the federal appellate court and a decision was handed down earlier this week.

IFI Update

IFI in Texas celebrates its 10th anniversary, the Iowa programme loses funding and a new programme opens for women in Missouri.