Ethnographic evaluation of an alternative to incarceration program for women charged with felonies and their children

Background: Programs allowing incarcerated women to remain with their children can decrease health and social disparities in this vulnerable group. Effects of co-residence in alternative to incarceration (ATI) programs have not previously been described. The overall goal of this project was to determine interim health and social outcomes for the initial cohort selected to reside in Drew House, an innovative supportive housing ATI program for women charged with felonies and their children. The study was conducted solely by Columbia University researchers. Methods: Ethnographic methods were used to collect and analyze data. Results derived from in-depth interviews and extensive participant observation over seven months. Sample included all but one current and former adult participant (N = 8), their resident children (N = 12), staff (N = 3), administrator (N = 1), and the District Attorney and team (N = 4) who created the program. Results: Despite extensive histories of family separation, residential instability, domestic violence victimization, substance use, and mental illness, participating women reunited or remained with their youngest children, maintained sobriety, remained in stable, safe housing, and completed criminal justice mandates. They described the program as “our home”, “a blessing”, and “an opportunity”. On-site services focused on completion of court requirements, leaving unattended adult and pediatric health needs. Conclusions: Diverting select women charged with felonies to an ATI that allows co-residence strengthened these families without compromising public safety. Nursing expertise is needed in mother-child ATI programs to develop on-site intervention models and linkages to community primary and specialty health care.