Camp Hope brings together fathers, children

TOWSON, MD –Western Correctional Institution (WCI) a maximum-security facility near Cumberland, MD, is wrapping up a summer camp that allows children to spend time with their incarcerated fathers.

Hope House, established in 1998 in Washington, D.C., runs the program. This year, nine children and their fathers are participating.

Inmates who participate in Camp Hope are carefully screened and must meet stringent criteria, including remaining infraction-free for an entire year. Sexual offenders are not allowed to participate. Participants are also required to take part in parenting classes before and after the camp.

“For many of our families this is the first time in their lives they have ever had one on one time together,” said Hope House’s Carol Fennelly.  “The relationship building, forgiveness, and bonding that occurs during that time together is magic.  Fractured relationships and broken hearts begin to heal and kids know they are loved and not abandoned.”

During the week-long program, the children meet with their fathers daily for arts and crafts, lunch and other camp activities. The children stay at a local campground for the week, augmenting their experience.

WCI is the second maximum security facility to host Camp Hope.  According to WCI’s Assistant Warden Denise Gelsinger, “This is a wonderful opportunity for parents and children to spend quality time together reestablishing parental ties to guide the future.”

DPSCS Communications Office Contacts:

Mark Vernarelli ~ 410-339-5065 ~ mvernarelli@dpscs.state.md.us

Renata Seergae~ 410-339-5824 ~ rseergae@dpscs.state.md.us