Bridging the Gap: How Family Members Support Formerly Incarcerated Women During Reentry

June 18, 2025
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DeAnna Smith, Sinclair Dennison, Jennifer Miller, Aiolya Zhang

This brief examines the role of family members in supporting women following incarceration. Drawing on original, qualitative survey data from 50 participants, the report reveals the extensive emotional and financial support families provide to formerly incarcerated loved ones, often while facing significant barriers and receiving little assistance from the federal, state, or local government.

hands reaching out in comfort

Key findings

  • The main types of support that family members provided to formerly incarcerated women included financial support (84%), housing assistance (68%), and emotional support or advice (68%).
  • Respondents reported various challenges as a result of supporting their formerly incarcerated relative, with the most common challenges being financial strain (72%) and mental health challenges (42%).
  • Family members struggled to address their formerly incarcerated loved one’s needs, especially around employment, education, and legal aid. Family members found themselves unable to provide these types of support primarily due to financial constraints and gaps in knowledge.