PROGRAMS FOR WOMEN
Alvis House had been open for more than 20 years before opening its first program for women in 1990. Today, the agency works with women in transition in Columbus, Dayton and Toledo, Ohio. Although far fewer women than men are in prison, their rates of incarceration are increasing faster than those of men.
For many years, it was accepted that what worked for men in the criminal justice system would also work for women - but no more. Alvis House operates research-based programs for women that combine supervision and services to address their specialized needs in highly structured, safe environments where accountability is stressed. We work with our clients to enhance coping and decision-making skills and to help empower them to achieve self-sufficiency.
- 57% reported both physical and sexual abuse experiences, compared with 16% of males.
- 38% have a history of mental illness, compared with 21% of males.
- 60% reported using drugs in the month before their offense; 50% reported daily use; and
- nearly one in three women stated they committed their offense to obtain money to
- purchase drugs.
- 37% had incomes of less than $600 per month prior to arrest, compared with 28% of males.
- 70% of women under correctional supervision have children under the age of 18.
Alvis House provides programs and services that meet women’s greatest needs: comprehensive treatment for chemical dependency, mental health and trauma recovery. Alvis House also provides education and training in job and parenting skills; counseling for relationship issues; and safe and sober housing.
