Welcome to the Peer Pal Project, an initiative by Emancipation Impact Network dedicated to fostering connections and providing support for people impacted by incarceration. This initiative was designed to bridge the gap between those seeking help and those willing to lend a helping hand — whether it’s emotional, financial, or some other form of support.

How it works

Our Peer Pal initiative is a pen pal project where people on the outside connect with people on the inside.

1. For Incarcerated Individuals or those newly re-entered into society

We are here for you if you are incarcerated or have recently re-entered society and would value emotional support, financial assistance, or any other form of help. By filling out our Typeform questionnaire (below), we can better understand your unique circumstances and match you with a caring Peer Pal who can support you.

2. For Volunteers and Supporters

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of those impacted by incarceration? As a volunteer or supporter, you can offer your time, expertise, or resources to uplift and empower others. By filling out our Typeform questionnaire (below), we can connect you with someone who can benefit from your support.

Join the project

Simply fill out the Typeform below to let us know how we can assist you or how you can lend a helping hand.

https://form.typeform.com/to/NsKoDXeO

Click here to access our Typeform and get started

Join the Movement

The Peer Pal project is just one step toward our larger mission of dismantling the prison-industrial complex and creating a society that values rehabilitation, justice, and equality. Join our movement by connecting to Discord and sharing our message with your people.

Peer Pal FAQ

1. How can I support someone who is incarcerated?
   1. Financially
      1. Most folks can receive money through JPay. Simply create an account and search for their doc number to add as a contact. Make sure to choose the option of “Offender” so that they receive the payment in full instead of the funds going towards restitution costs. Send what you can, when you can. Anything between $15-50 goes a long way
   2. Emotionally
      1. Oftentimes, our incarcerated friends aren’t able to fully express themselves – connecting with someone on the outside can give them a chance to write/talk with someone who isn’t judging them based on their history or situation. Try to be as open and supportive as possible
   3. Reentry & Legal
      1. Gearing towards release is no simple journey – showing support and hope for reentry to society is vital for our incarcerated friends’ well-being. A super plus if you have legal knowledge or have lawyer friends willing to provide legal advice or even representation
2. What should we talk about?
   1. Introduce yourself, your hobbies, and your reason for reaching out. Ask them questions about their routines, interests, and anything else you would typically ask a new friend. Avoid asking questions that are too invasive too soon, and most of all, show empathy.
3. When & how often should we communicate?
   1. If you can keep in touch, 1-2 letters a month will suffice. It’s easier/faster to communicate if the facility provides the facility with tablets inside. Most of which can use apps such as GettingOut
4. How else can I show my support?
   1. Check out these Solidarity Commitments