Loved One in Prison? With more than 2 million Americans in prison, you’re not alone! It is estimated that 1.7 million American children are dealing with having a parent in jail. This is the hardest, but you might also have a grandparent, aunt, uncle, brother, sister, or other loved one who is serving time. This can be very challenging, especially if they are far away and you don’t get to see them much. Hopefully you have a good relationship and you can at least write letters back and forth. This helps them, too.

Remember, this isn’t your fault, either, and you have to take care of yourself. If you stay focused on your goals and do well in school, it will be a great comfort to the person who’s in prison, but it’s you we are mainly worried about. Schools and social services often have no idea that kids are dealing with this. You may decide to confide in a teacher or someone else who might offer encouragement and understanding.

Visit if you can, but at least try to write regularly.

Children of Inmates: http://www.childrenofinmates.org/ (A Miami-based organization whose services are mainly limited to that area, but the website does provide helpful information.)