Shelter Cats Play A Key Role In Changing The Lives Of Indiana Prisoners
Every cat owner understands that these furry companions are far more than simple pets – they bring comfort, calm, and healing into our lives.
With their gentle presence, cats have a special way of soothing anxiety and lifting our moods. They provide friendship, ease the weight of loneliness, and fill our days with joy.
But their gifts don’t stop there. Cats also hold an extraordinary ability that has made a difference in a rather unexpected setting.
Inside a prison in Indiana, these animals are helping transform the lives of inmates. Here’s a closer look at this remarkable story.
In 2015, the Animal Protection League and the state of Indiana partnered up to launch a heartwarming initiative at the Pendleton Correctional Facility.
This program, named F.O.R.W.A.R.D., aimed to create a safe environment for shelter cats while allowing inmates the chance to care for them.
The program quickly proved to be a success, benefiting both the cats and the prisoners.
Many of these cats had faced neglect or abuse in the past, making it difficult for them to trust humans or socialize appropriately.
With limited trust in people, their chances of being adopted were slim. However, this program gave them an opportunity to start fresh!
The cats receive behavior modification and trust-building programs, helping them become more well-adjusted and prepared for a forever home.
Inmates take on the responsibility of feeding, grooming, and cleaning up after the cats, offering care and attention. As a result, the cats begin to trust more and become increasingly social.
But the benefits extend beyond just the cats; the inmates also gain valuable life skills. The program teaches them responsibility and provides the opportunity to care for another living being.
M. Stringer, the director of APL, shared:
“I’ve had offenders tell me when they got an animal, it was the first time they can remember they were allowing themselves to care about something, to love something.”
The program instills responsibility, fosters non-violent problem-solving in group settings, and allows inmates to experience the unconditional love of a pet – something many of them have never known. Stringer added:
“It teaches them responsibility, how to interact in a group using non-violent methods to solve problems, and gives them the unconditional love of a pet – something many of these inmates have never known.”
Similar programs have been introduced in correctional facilities across the country. One prominent example is the Purrfect Pals program at the Monroe Correctional Complex.
These initiatives have been incredibly successful in achieving their goals.
However, it’s important to note that one of these programs sparked anger in some people.
Some felt that people convicted of serious crimes should not be allowed to keep cats in their cells, believing that not all inmates should be trusted with animals.
