Nourishing the Connections Program
We are humbled to announce that we are part of the inaugural class of the African American Health Special Emphasis Grant (Paths to Black Health Grant), which is funded by the Minnesota Department of Health Office of African American Health. This program is 100% funded by this grant and will be a part of the Solid Roots offerings until June 2027.
What is the program?
To build, two must connect - We crafted our program, “Nourishing the Connections,” to foster the growth of connections between mother and child, within families, and into the broader community. Each session is curated to establish guidance from the lens of those whose experiences and stories can align with yours. We culturally curated a parenting development framework that focuses on the following themes:
career exploration,
mental wellness,
life mapping with financial literacy,
agricultural development/farming,
housing,
Elder Storyteller, and
education.
Who is the program for?
We aim to serve the African American community for the duration of this program. The sessions are private and crafted to serve mothers and their children. The design supports the development of an African American-identified mother as they transition from incarceration to society or receive appointed support through a state agency, such as the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Child Protective Services division.
Why did we develop this program?
As of 2022, Black people were more likely than those of other races to be imprisoned in the United States. In that year, the rate of imprisonment for Black men stood at 1,826 per 100,000 of the population. For Black women, this rate stood at 64 per 100,000 of the population (Veera Korhonen, 2024).
Simply put, our mission is to dismantle systemic recidivism by helping mothers and their children transition from incarceration to society. Our primary approach is to strive for, learn, and develop opportunities for individual and familial growth by providing wraparound services in an agricultural environment. We believe this program is a component of our approach that will truly disrupt the cycle of recidivism, promote the growth mindset of healthy people, create healthy families, and effectively bridge the gap as an alternative tool for justice reinvestment.
Our hope is to nourish the roots that will bear good fruit.
When is the program?
Cohort One: Bi-weekly on Wednesdays at the Wilder Foundation - 451 Lexington Parkway N. St. Paul, MN.
Cohort One starts on October 30th, 2024, at 5:30 PM.
Cohort Two: Cohort Two begins in April 2025 at the North End Community Center - 145 Lawson Ave W, St Paul, MN 55117
Water the Roots.
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Mentally
Reintegration into society can be a daunting journey for mothers and their children after incarceration. This program has a session tailored to providing mental health support for their unique experiences and challenges. We aim to foster resilience, strengthen family bonds, and empower these families as they navigate their transition and circumstances. Our commitment is to help mothers reclaim their roles and nurture healthy relationships with their children while equipping them with the skills necessary to thrive in their communities. Together, we forge pathways toward healing and stability, ensuring no family has to face this journey alone.
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Emotionally
Emotionally nurturing the roots of families as they transition from incarceration to society is vital for healing and growth. Mothers and their children often face unique challenges during this period of reintegration. Support systems that emphasize understanding, empathy, and connection play a crucial role in fostering resilience. By creating safe spaces for open communication and sharing experiences, families can rebuild trust and strengthen their bonds. This journey towards stability not only nurtures the emotional well-being of both mothers and children but also lays a solid foundation for a brighter future together. Through community support, educational resources, and therapy, families can cultivate a sense of belonging and hope, allowing them to thrive as they navigate this transformative chapter in their lives.
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Physically
Many mothers face significant challenges when transitioning from incarceration back into society, often compounded by the need to reunite with their children. Our program is dedicated to providing physical support during this critical period, offering guidance with housing, employment, and childcare resources. By fostering a nurturing environment, we aim to empower these women to rebuild their lives and strengthen their family bonds. We believe that with the right support, mothers can overcome barriers, creating a positive impact not only for themselves but also for their children, paving the way for a brighter future together.
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Spiritually
We are rooted in faith that The Most High God will provide so long as we seek Him. We address the unique emotional and spiritual needs that may arise as we speak about the challenges and circumstances participants are enduring. We focus on restoring relationships and nurturing a sense of belonging. Together, we help mothers and children find their path to healing and a hopeful future.