a healthy start

for infants born to

incarcerated women

Motherhood Beyond Bars (MBB) is the only organization in Georgia offering comprehensive support for incarcerated mothers, their infants and caregivers. We support and strengthen families with the goal of long term, healthy reunification and a permanent end to cycles of incarceration in families.

Addressing The Problem

What We’re Up Against

The number of incarcerated women has skyrocketed over the past four decades— the effects on children and families has been devastating. Children with a parent in prison face increased risks, including social, emotional, and behavioral disorders, substance abuse, cognitive delays, and academic challenges. Every child born to a woman in prison is born with the deck stacked against them. Motherhood Beyond Bars works to reverse the odds and support thriving families and brighter futures by providing holistic family support.

80%

Of women held in jails are mothers to dependent children

525%

Increase in the number of incarcerated women over the past 4 decades

200,000

Georgia children separated due to parental incarceration

#1

Georgia has more people in prison & on probation than any other state

In Their Own Words

Meet our staff, mothers, and caregivers in this short video that highlights the vital role Motherhood Beyond Bars plays in supporting families. Grab a tissue and hit play.

Our Programs

Smiling woman with baby, man nearby, urban background. Baby sleeps in her arms, a touching family moment

Infant & Caregiver Support

We offer direct services, emotional support, and resources to families caring for infants with incarcerated mothers. Our work keeps infants safe, out of the child welfare system, and connected to their mothers throughout their separation. Caregivers tell us this program is a “lifesaver” and mothers in prison tell us that knowing their infant is supported provides comfort and hope. Learn More >

two women standing in front of a door smiling.

Reentry & Family Reunification

Nearly every mother in our program is planning on leaving prison and reunifying with her child. Unfortunately, the reentry process is not designed to give families the support the need to be successful. We begin planning for family reunification and a successful reentry from day one by offering education, ongoing support, and innovative methods to maintain meaningful connections. Learn More >

Group discussing around table indoors, one woman with clipboard, another woman, man in chairs, blurry figure in background, various items on table, white room.

Research & Advocacy

This program conducts groundbreaking research in partnership with Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health on the impact of incarceration on infants, mothers, and caregivers, aiming to promote healthy reunification and gather data on various aspects of their well-being. Learn More >