Group Looks Out For Families Of Those In Prison

LISTEN: WBBM Newsradio’s Regine Schlesinger reports

November 18, 2011 6:28 AM

Jail Brakers is dedicated to providing emotional support to the families of those in prison. (Credit: Jail Brakers)

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Heard on WBBM 780, Local, News, Syndicated Local

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WOODSTOCK, Ill. (CBS) — A fundraiser will be held in Woodstock Saturday for a unique organization that helps families with relatives in prison.

As WBBM Newsradio’s Regine Schlesinger reports, the group Jail Brakers began after Woodstock resident Cheryl Niemo’s 18-year-old son was sentenced to a long prison term for a violent crime.

LISTEN: WBBM Newsradio’s Regine Schlesinger reports

“I imagined that I would be able to find something in my community that would be meaningful to me; to help me cope with the separation and the grief, and the loss,” she said.

But Niemo couldn’t find such an organization, so she founded Jail Brakers. The group supports families whose loved ones are behind bars.

Among other things, the group helps parents, and often young brothers and sisters of inmates to deal with their emotions.

Families of inmates join groups that meet for 12 weeks, the Web site for Jail Brakers explains. Each sessions begin with circle time where members talk and share stories, followed by a community dinner and activity.

The group is holding its fundraiser Saturday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Woodstock Moose Lodge, at 406 Clay St.

For more information on Jail Brakers, click here for the group’s Web site.

Group Looks Out For Families Of Those In Prison

Just Axin

Real nice! Can I go and meet the parents who say, “He could not have done such a thing!” How great would it be to tell them off and that they probably played a role in their criminal upbringing. Then maybe we can have a fundraiser for the victims’ families.

Nancy

Some families can raise their children with great care and prison happens. People make mistakes and families who are also innocent suffer. There are thousands of people in prison for non-violent offenses too. They may have broken the law driving or drugging but didn’t hurt anyone. In Europe prisoners are rehabilitated through education and training for a trade. In this country you can serve your time but seldom get a second chance. I applaud this groups effort to reach out to families.

Stop The Insanity!!!!!!!!!!!.

It ALL just gets dumber everyday.
NWA

Dude, both families are victims. I’m sure they didn’t send their familiy member out to commit a crime.

S.O.S.

Tyreese

In Englewood they do, NWA!!!

BOO HOO!

Poor Mommy’s little boy who probably really hurt someone!! Mommy misses you! Let’s all hold her hand and give her money!! Why doesnt she use the donations to offset what the taxpayers are already paying for keeping her precious child in their custody. 3 meals a day, exercise, library.
The if and when he gets out, let’s celebrate and give them more donations
.The poor thing has been though so much.
How is the victim doing??
Jim Hamilton

So your dad was a murder and you’re having a rough time gettin by, well guess what don’t be a murder and bring this kind of life on your kids.

On the other hand

So your dad was a murder and you’re having a rough time getting by, here kid we’ll take care of you and if you have a hard time providing for your family in the future, just kill someone we’ll look after your kids for you.