White House Proclamation Recognizes Second Chance Month — An Effort by Prison Fellowship to Unlock Better Futures for Formerly Incarcerated People

Washington, D.C., April 1, 2024—Prison Fellowship, the nation’s largest Christian nonprofit serving prisoners, former prisoners, and their families, released the following statement after President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. proclaimed April 2024 as Second Chance Month.

“We are grateful that the White House has once again issued a presidential proclamation addressing the importance of second chances for formerly incarcerated individuals,” said Heather Rice-Minus, president and CEO of Prison Fellowship. “We wholeheartedly support this declaration and the collective work of more than 800 churches and organizations across the nation in championing fresh starts for those with a criminal record who have completed their sentences. We believe that every person is made in the image of God, and that the more than 70 million Americans with criminal records—one in three people—are more than their worst choices. We affirm their God-given dignity and potential, believing in second chances to drive positive and transformative change.”

“Research shows that when people who have served their time hit insurmountable barriers to finding employment, housing, food, and healthcare, they are likely to reoffend to survive,” said Kate Trammell, Prison Fellowship vice president of legal and advocacy. “We support fair legislation that provides formerly incarcerated individuals who have served their sentences with the opportunity to rebuild their lives, strengthen family bonds, and contribute to society.”

To view the 2024 Presidential Proclamation, click here.