This Program offers groups focused on empowerment for incarcerated mothers as well as mothers in the community dealing with the effects of the oppression on their lives. Within a social justice framework, we explore issues of motherhood, identity and parenting while navigating the system, reunifying with their children. In addition to groups program has components consisting of direct advocacy and referrals.

This program addresses two significant and intertwined issues: the prevalence of postpartum depression and the increasing number of women at the intersection of the criminal justice system and motherhood.

CURRENT GROUPS WE OFFER:

Mothers Among Us at Western Mass Regional Women’s Correctional Center, Chicopee MA

Postpartum and Beyond
Days: Tuesdays Time: 9:30-11:00
Next Session dates: February 2nd – March 9th

The objective of this group is to provide a transformational space where incarcerated mothers can explore issues of motherhood, identity and parenting. This safe space includes a non- judgmental, supportive opportunity to share information, resources and gain skills in self- efficacy.

A goal of this group is to encourage mothers to maintain a relationship with their children and to continue mothering even while incarcerated. We discuss that mothering may look different for everyone. There is a large focus on self care and that if a mother does not care for herself, it is that much more difficult to care for ones child. In this it is important to find positive ways to nurture oneself while at the same time nurturing the children.

MAU group has a nutrition component. While in season, we bring fresh vegetables grown in a community garden plot designated to increasing food security of mothers and children that is managed by the prison birth project. Other healthy snacks such as whole grain crackers, pastries, cheese, and fruits are also served.
Every group will be the same in structure, with guidelines, check in and activity. Some topics discussed in our groups are: Identity of motherhood, strengths and resiliency, personal narrative, tools to navigate difficult moments in parenting and life.
This group is for all pregnant woman and mothers with children under 3. Also open to any mother who feels the group topics relate to her current experiences of mothers guilt, delayed postpartum depression, etc.

Mothers Among Us in Northampton, MA

Days: Mondays Time: 10:00-11:30
Childcare and Snacks Provided

A free drop-in group open to any mothers in the community with any age children. Specific referrals to the group will be made from the MotherWoman Postpartum Group whose children are over 1 year old, the Grace House, Safe Passages, The Prison Birth Project.

This group is a collaboration between MotherWoman and The Prison Birth Project
Community Sponsors Include: The Grace House, Safe Passages, Mothers of Color Awareness Initiative.

DONATIONS
of healthy snacks, art supplies, gift cards to supper markets are all necessary to keep these programs running.

Thank you to the following businesses for ongoing support of this program:

Deals and Steals, Northampton MA
Cup and Top Cafe, Florence MA
Serios Market, Northampton MA
Henion Bakery, Amherst MA
Siren Cafe, Greenfield MA
Big Y World Class Market