NCJ Number
242490
Date Published
September 2011
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Findings and methodology are presented for a process and outcome evaluation of the Kings County, NY, Drew House Model, which provides supportive housing in a non-secure setting for women charged with felonies and their minor children.
Abstract
Of the 9 women and their 13 children who participated in the program from 2008 through 2011, 6 completed the court mandate, 2 were progressing toward completion, and 1 was discharged from the program for repeated rule violations. The women remained or reunited with their youngest children, and families remained stably housed during and after mandates. The evaluation recommends scaling up and replicating this model so more families can be served. Funding for more stable support is also recommended. Other recommendations pertain to the transition to off-site supportive housing upon completion of the program, supportive staff supervision and continuing education, collaboration among all stakeholders in promoting referrals, and on-site intervention for positive parenting and family health. The average age of participants was 29 years. The women had histories of homelessness, residential instability, domestic violence victimization, substance use, mental illness, and family separation. The number of children per family was 2.3, and the resident children per family averaged 1.4. Programming at the time of the evaluation provided for up to three minor children per family; case management and brief counseling on-site; and referral for community health and supportive services. Those charged with a violent felony were eligible for consideration if the crime did not result in serious injury and the victim approved of the disposition. Women were not monitored after completion of their mandate. Ethnographic methods were used, including interviews with staff and members of the district attorney's office, as well as 7 months of on-site observation.