The role of a father in a child's life is priceless. And when dad is in prison, his absence can cause more emotional harm than good.
Father's Day is always a bittersweet day for me—and millions of other children with parents in prison. Dad isn't home. We miss him. We love him. But still—dad isn't there. And yet, we still have to progress through our daily life because no one is going to make excuses for us like: "Aww, your dad is in prison so you don't have to be held accountable for your actions or shortcomings."
So what do we do? We keep on going. But the reality is, progression is not possible without support and proactive action.
I received a letter from a father serving life in prison who hasn't spoken to his 11 year-old son over the phone in almost 2 years. Devastating. His son, Jamal, is falling behind academically and is often sent to the principal's office for misbehaving.
Continue to pray with me for Jamal. Jamal needs emotional and academic care. Jamal also needs to be able to visit his dad in prison, even though it may be hard for him at this time. Jamal needs to be surrounded by family, friends, teachers, and mentors who embody compassion, understanding, patience, and support.
We know children with parents in prison are 6 times more likely to repeat their parents footsteps. And the thought of Jamal possibly becoming incarcerated like his daddy, makes my heart cringe.
Donate now to the Destiny Jackson Foundation so that we can continue to help children whose parents are serving 20 years to life in prison. Don't give because I said so. Give because you truly care about helping these precious kids.
Together we will,
~Destiny
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