Why is SISTER House needed?
SISTER House is needed to provide a real place with real opportunities.

Currently there are about 1,200 women imprisoned in Wisconsin. There are additional women in jail or in short-term treatment programs (in lieu of incarceration or in post-incarceration programs). Most of the women committed non-violent property or drug-related crimes. Many grew up in chaotic family situations and many were abused as children. Several of the women also have at least one family member who has been incarcerated.

In 2011 at least 400 of these women will return to Wisconsin communities. Most will return without the education, employment history, and life-skills necessary to successfully reintegrate into society. Also, once they return, most will continue to have extremely limited access to the resources needed to rebuild their lives.

Furthermore 70% or more of returning women have minor children. Many will once again become their children’s primary care giver. Somehow society expects the women to be the “good” parents they were unable to be previously. Additionally their children are six times more likely than their peers to become criminally involved.

Without access to vital resources and a strong support network many of the women will commit new crimes. The current recidivism rate (including revocation) is about 75%. However, if a person “stays clean” (sober and does not commit new crimes) for one year, thereafter they are 75% more likely to lead a successful life. In turn, each woman's success will help end their family's cycle of incarceration.

SISTER House will provide a real place with real opportunities for returning women.