What We Do
Justice in action. Advocacy with purpose.
Advocacy & Accountability
We advocate for individuals impacted by incarceration by amplifying silenced voices, challenging unjust systems, and pushing for accountability and reform where justice has failed.
Re-Entry & Family Support
We support individuals and families navigating incarceration and re-entry by providing guidance, resources, and compassionate support during moments of transition, hardship, and healing.
Dignity-Centered Support
We believe dignity is a human right. Our work centers the humanity of those impacted by incarceration, ensuring people are seen, heard, and treated with respect at every stage of their journey.
Faith-Rooted Community Action
Rooted in faith and compassion, we stand in the gap where systems fall short—mobilizing community support, prayer, advocacy, and action to restore hope and dignity.
Our Programs
Monthly Card‑Making Workshops for Children with an Incarcerated Loved One
Connected Hearts is a gentle, monthly virtual program created by Justice & Advocacy for the Incarcerated (JAI) Foundation, in partnership with Fight For Your Light, to support children who have an incarcerated parent or loved one.
Why Connected Hearts
So many children carry heartaches they don’t yet have words for. The absence of a loved one, the questions from others, and the moments they don’t know how to explain can weigh heavily on tender hearts.
Connected Hearts was created to normalize these emotions and remind children that they are not alone, not broken, and not defined by stigma. Through creativity and connection, children are encouraged to express love, build resilience, and maintain meaningful bonds—despite distance.
​
What to Expect
-
Monthly virtual workshops held on the first Thursday of each month
-
A safe, supportive Zoom environment with host supervision
-
Guided card‑making and creative expression
-
No pressure to speak or share
-
A focus on connection, comfort, and care
-
​
How It Helps
Art and thoughtful expression offer children a gentle way to communicate with their incarcerated loved one—often in ways words alone cannot. Each card becomes a bridge, reminding both the child and their loved one that they are remembered, valued, and deeply loved.
​
Creative Kits & Mail-Friendly Techniques
Families who wish to do so may share their mailing address with us, and JAI Foundation, in partnership with Fight For Your Light, can send participating child(ren) a small creative package. These packages may include pre-designed paper, envelopes, and postage, prepared specifically to support participation in the Connected Hearts workshop.
During the sessions, children will also learn mail-friendly drawing and writing techniques, including how to create meaningful artwork using pen-only designs. This guidance helps reduce the risk of mail being denied or returned due to facility restrictions, ensuring children’s messages have the best chance of reaching their loved one.
All materials and techniques shared are chosen with care and awareness of common correctional facility mailing guidelines.
​
Important Information for Parents
-
Connected Hearts is a creative support program, not therapy or counseling
-
Participation is voluntary, with parent or guardian consent required
-
Sessions are not recorded
-
Children may keep cameras off if preferred
-
Interested in Joining? Families who would like more information or wish to register are invited to contact us.
Learn more by signing up through email at: contact_us@jaifoundation.ca or
*** Be sure to include the name of the program you are interested in
A Monthly Healing Journey for Families Learning to Navigate Incarceration
Choosing Love is a monthly healing and support program created to uplift mothers, partners, and loved ones impacted by incarceration. This program focuses on self-love, emotional wellness, resilience, and personal growth — helping families navigate their journey with strength, compassion, and hope.
Each month, participants gather for a guided healing circle centered around a specific self-love and wellness topic such as healing from grief, rebuilding confidence, managing stress, setting healthy boundaries, and rediscovering joy. These conversations provide a safe and supportive space for open sharing, reflection, and encouragement.
In addition to emotional healing, Choosing Love offers families an opportunity to request additional guidance, resources, or advocacy support through private follow-up conversations. Participants may share specific challenges or concerns and receive help connecting with support services, legal resources, or community assistance through JAI Foundation.
This program recognizes that supporting the emotional well-being of families is just as important as advocating for justice — because healing strengthens families, communities, and futures.
​
Program Highlights
• Monthly guided healing circles focused on self-love and wellness
• Safe, confidential, and judgment-free environment
• Emotional support and community connection
• Opportunity to request additional guidance or advocacy support
• Led by compassionate facilitators committed to healing and empowerment
​
Important Information for Participants
-
Choosing Love is a creative support program, not therapy or counseling
-
Participation is voluntary
-
Sessions are not recorded
-
You may keep cameras off if preferred
-
Interested in Joining? Families who would like more information or wish to participate are invited to contact us.
Learn more by contacting us through email at: contact_us@jaifoundation.ca
*** Be sure to include the name of the program
​
A Personalized Homecoming Blueprint
Coming home is sacred.
It is more than a release date. It is restoration. It is rebuilding... A second start to life.
At (JAI) Foundation, we walk alongside families as they prepare for their loved one’s return; practically, and intentionally.
Why This Program Exists
When someone has been separated from family for years, the transition home can feel overwhelming.
Housing. Identification. Employment. Healthcare. Transportation. Emotional adjustment. Family roles.
Many families are expected to “just figure it out.”
But we believe preparation reduces pressure.
We believe wisdom builds stability.
We believe God does not waste redemption stories.
This program exists to help you prepare — step by step — so your loved one’s homecoming is rooted in structure, dignity, and hope.
This Program Is For You If…
-
Your loved one has a release date approaching (or you want to prepare early)
-
You want help finding trusted resources in their returning community
-
You feel overwhelmed and need a clear roadmap
-
Your loved one has skills, talents, and goals but needs direction
-
You want your home to be ready emotionally and practically
How It Works
Step 1: You Share the Details
Submit a form and tell us:
-
Expected discharge/release date (or estimate)
-
Returning location (city/region)
-
Skills, work experience, and interests
-
Programs completed
-
Immediate needs (ID, housing, employment, healthcare, etc.)
-
Any restrictions or concerns (optional)
You may share a general location if you prefer privacy.
Step 2: We Build the Plan
We prayerfully and carefully research the strongest options available in that community and create your customized roadmap.
Step 3: You Review
We send a email that will details of available assistance, numbers and addresses, you let us know if there's any further information/ resources needed.
Step 4: You Receive the Final Blueprint
You’ll have a clear plan in your hands in a easy to print PDF (or keep it on your device) something you can refer back on conveniently.
​​​
Frequently Asked Questions
When should we start preparing?
As early as possible. Even 3–6 months before release can make a meaningful difference.
​
What if we don’t know the exact release date?
That’s okay. We can build a flexible plan based on your best estimate.
​
Do we only serve Canada?
No. We assist families in various regions by identifying local resources in the returning community.
Privacy & Boundaries
We respect your family’s privacy.
Information shared is used only to prepare your reintegration plan and resource guide.
(JAI) Foundation provides planning and resource navigation. We do not guarantee acceptance into outside programs and we do not provide legal advice
We will help you prepare with clarity and strength.
Click on the box below to get started or Learn more by contacting us through email at: contact_us@jaifoundation.ca
*** Be sure to include the name of the program