Group Looks Out For Families Of Those In Prison
WOODSTOCK, Ill. (CBS) -- A fundraiser will be held in Woodstock Saturday for a unique organization that helps families with relatives in prison.
As WBBM Newsradio's Regine Schlesinger reports, the group Jail Brakers began after Woodstock resident Cheryl Niemo's 18-year-old son was sentenced to a long prison term for a violent crime.
LISTEN: WBBM Newsradio's Regine Schlesinger reports
Podcast
"I imagined that I would be able to find something in my community that would be meaningful to me; to help me cope with the separation and the grief, and the loss," she said.
But Niemo couldn't find such an organization, so she founded Jail Brakers. The group supports families whose loved ones are behind bars.
Among other things, the group helps parents, and often young brothers and sisters of inmates to deal with their emotions.
Families of inmates join groups that meet for 12 weeks, the Web site for Jail Brakers explains. Each sessions begin with circle time where members talk and share stories, followed by a community dinner and activity.
The group is holding its fundraiser Saturday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Woodstock Moose Lodge, at 406 Clay St.
For more information on Jail Brakers, click here for the group's Web site.
