REBUILDING FAMILY AFTER INCARCERATION

Coming home isn’t just about getting back on your feet—it’s also about Rebuilding Family After Incarceration.Family, close friends, and even your kids have lived their own struggles while you were away. It’s natural for things to feel different or even awkward at first. But with patience and effort, you can repair and strengthen those bonds.

The most important thing? Take it one step at a time. Reconnecting won’t happen overnight, but every small action—a call, a visit, a promise kept—helps rebuild trust.

Step 1: Ease Back into Family Life

When you come home, you may expect your family to welcome you with open arms. Some will—but others may have mixed emotions. They may feel hurt, resentful, or unsure about how to connect with you again.

Here’s how to make the transition smoother:

• Give it time. People need space to process the changes, just like you do. Move at their pace, not just yours.

• Have honest conversations. If there were past hurts, listen to their feelings without getting defensive.

• Be present and consistent. Small actions over time—like checking in regularly—show that you’re serious about rebuilding trust.

If things feel tense, consider family counseling or mediation. Many churches and community centers in Los Angeles offer free or low-cost family support services to help navigate tough conversations.

Where to Find Family Support in Los Angeles:

• Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Family Support – Provides counseling and resources for families adjusting to reunification. Find services near you.

• The Center for Nonviolent Parenting & Education – Offers parenting workshops and emotional support for families. Learn more.

Step 2: Reconnecting with Your Kids

Parenting after prison comes with unique challenges. Your kids may feel shy, confused, or even angry. It’s okay—they need time to adjust just like you do.

Ways to rebuild your connection:

• Start small. Spend time together in ways that feel natural—reading bedtime stories, helping with homework, or playing a game.

•  Be open and honest. Let them ask questions, and be patient when they do.

•  Show up and stay consistent. If you say you’ll be there, be there. Keeping promises—even small ones—helps rebuild trust.

• There are programs in LA designed to help formerly incarcerated parents reconnect with their children.

Where to Find Parenting Support in Los Angeles:

Dad’s Back! Academy (Los Angeles) – A six-month program that helps reentry fathers build strong parenting skills, prepare for work, and create healthy relationships. Get more info.

Amity Foundation Reentry Services – Provides parenting classes, counseling, and resources to help parents strengthen relationships with their children. Learn more here.

Center for Restorative Justice Works (Get on the Bus Program) – Helps reunite incarcerated parents with their children through family visits. Find out more.

Step 3: Keep the Right People Close

Coming home also means choosing who you surround yourself with. Some relationships will help you move forward.Others may pull you back into old habits.

Build a strong support network by:

• Connecting with positive mentors and peer support groups

• Staying in touch with people who encouraged you inside—especially those in reentry programs

• Setting boundaries with negative influences

  
  

Programs like the Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC) connect people coming home with mentors, peer support, and career opportunities. You don’t have to do this alone—having a solid team makes all the difference.

Step 4: Trust Takes Time—But It’s Worth It

You can’t change the past, but you can build a better future—one step at a time. Family and relationships take effort, patience, and a willingness to show up. Not every conversation will be easy, and not everyone will be ready to meet you where you are.But with consistency and honesty, the bonds you rebuild will be even stronger.

Get the Support You Need

Rebuilding relationships isn’t something you have to do alone.

Need parenting support? On My Grind’s PathFinder program can connect you to parenting classes, family counseling, and mentorship opportunities. Sign up here.

Looking for a mentor? Join On My Grind’s Mentorship program and find a coach who understands your journey and can guide you forward.

Want to repair relationships but don’t know where to start? PathFinder can help you navigate family dynamics, reconnect with your children, and rebuild trust step by step.

Your relationships matter. Your support system matters. The work you put in now will set the foundation for your future. Keep showing up, and keep moving forward.