Approach

Project Matthew’s program approach is strategic in nature and is focused on reducing recidivism and assisting in reentry to the community

1. Introduction of a scientific and faith-based curriculum of parenting, childbirth and life skills information provided at County and State jails, and transition housing in Dallas, TX.
2. Outside agencies that have expertise and resources such as Anger Management, Child Abuse Prevention, and Domestic Violence are invited to provide classes on a regular basis.
3. Case management services for pregnant inmates and/or mothers of young children. One-on one interaction with Project Matthew volunteers. This method makes it possible to individualize the approach to finding appropriate solutions to the specific challenges facing each mom and her children, such as developing a strong sense of personal value, learning health care responsibilities and rights, finding sources for baby care supplies, connecting with extended family, community resources, learning how to give informed consent for health care, etc.
4. Empowerment of new mothers. Project Matthew believes that it is critical to provide parenting education and support to incarcerated pregnant and other high-risk mothers in order to empower them to adopt healthy parenting practices, and define for themselves a wholesome parenting role.
   • Separation from their children and worries about their children’s welfare is probably the most difficult aspect of incarceration for mothers. The separation strikes at their self-definition as women. While education about children’s developmental needs is important, Project Matthew believes it is also crucial to work with these women on their sense of what it means to be a mother, and how this role affects their self-esteem.
5. Provision of qualified doula/labor support volunteers to support the inmate through the labor process if requested by a mother.
   • Security and hospital officials have approved this procedure and each volunteer has applied for and received the necessary security clearance.
   • Studies prove this intervention reduces significantly shortened labors, less Perinatal interventions such as pitocin and C/Section vs. Control group. Improved maternal attachment behaviors were more likely to be noted in the women in the first hour of life.
6. Coordination with other agencies. Project Matthew assists high risk mothers access relevant and vital community services such as:
   • Crisis Pregnancy centers
   • Homeless/domestic abuse shelters
   • Substance Abuse treatment centers
   • Adoption/Foster Care agencies
   • Other ministries/agencies with the resources to assist their specific needs.