LAKIN — The Lakin Correctional Center, the only all female institution in West Virginia, recently began a new program entitled “Keeping Infant Development Successful (KIDS).”

The Lakin KIDS program, which was effective July 1, was designed and developed to allow eligible incarcerated mothers and the infant children born to them while in custody of the West Virginia Division of Corrections, to reside in a specifically designated portion of the facility with their child in a safe, secure and nurturing environment.

While residing at Lakin Correctional Center, mothers will be providing 24 hour/seven days a week care to their infant child with the hope of establishing a positive and loving bond with their child. The KIDS program is designed with both the needs of the mother and infant in mind. The mothers will be provided with both educational and transitional programs that will enable the offender to build the skills that allow them to transition with their infants and re-enter society successfully. The benefits far outnumber the risks.

Studies show that the developmental bond between incarcerated mothers and their infant child reduces the recidivism rate of the mother and allows for an attachment to be formed between the two. The infant benefits from the KIDS program because they have a mother to assist with their basic needs and give them love and affection instead of allowing family members or foster care to intervene in these children’s lives.

State law specifically authorizes the Division of Corrections to accept gifts of money and property to this program and Corrections seeks the community’s help. Since this program is just beginning Lakin is in need of several items to get up and running. Lakin would be very grateful for any items the community, corporate or individual, could donate in helping supply this program with essential baby care products.

The benefit of this program is that a mother is able to provide needed nurturing for her child, but also creates an incentive for a mother to re-enter society in a positive manner.

To learn more about the program and to provide support or make a monetary donation, contact Warden Adrian Hoke or Associate Warden of Programs, Craig Roberts at 11264 Ohio River Road, West Columbia, WV 25287 or call 304-674-2440.