Meet Maria…

Maria, 35
Incarcerated: 8 years
Housed: Montana Women’s Prison, Billings

I’ve been doing time since I was 13. I was 20 yrs old when I ate my first steak and experienced many things I missed. I had no independent living skills whatsoever. I went straight to the streets and got involved in selling drugs. I was only out for six years of my adult life and I was locked up again this time with a  29 year sentence. Since I’ve been in here, I’ve dove deep into education with certificates as a dog trainer and groomer.  I speak to college students and recently did an interview to change legislation and was granted parole from the parole board. I’m so blessed. I also get to do an awesome re-entry program called Culinary Art School to become a chef. God is great. I think being slow and steady, focused and determined has paid off. God saves his hardest battles for his strongest warriors. I love to spread the word and would love to be a part of your movement.

Meet Sarah…

I believe that sometimes it takes a true friend to show us that we are special and even behind walls we deserve to be happy and loved.

Sarah, 39
Incarcerated: 7 years
Housed: Montana Women’s Prison, Billings

I have learned a lot about myself during my incarceration. I am very co-dependent and have found myself in bad unhealthy relationships. I was in the middle of a bad relationship when I got moved to a new unit and got new roommates. One of my roommates is a very kind and gentle lady. I have come to see her as a prison mom. I felt very comfortable just being able to talk to her. Over the year that I have been her roommate, she has shown me I am truly a smart and beautiful person. Even though I have made mistakes, I deserve to be loved and accepted. I am a very kind hearted and loving person and many people take advantage of that. In the last few months I have been able to break free of my unhealthy relationship and know I am only “single” and not “alone.” I believe sometimes it takes a true friend to show us we are special and even behind walls we deserve to be happy and loved. I am so thankful for friends I never would have met, if I wasn’t here. They have helped me change for the better.