MOCJ Programs

Visiting Family & Assistance Program

Redirecting justice-involved New Yorkers away from jails and into community-based support.

The Visiting Family and Assistance Program (VFAP) provides services to women housed in the Rose M. Singer Center Correctional (RMSC) facility and their families in the city community to strengthen family connections during detention, facilitate long-term stability, and increase family reunification outcomes.

Partner PROGRAMS & ORGANIZATIONS

Services Provided & Focus Domains

Mental health Services
ACS
Advocacy
Reentry Service Planning
Transportation for families
Parenting Education
HOusing Assistance
Impact & Highlights
Women served since July 2022
In-person visits supported
Family services provided

Who it’s For

  • Women in the custody of NYC DOC at the time of referral
  • Women who served or plan to serve a parenting role in the life of a child
  • Interim caregivers and children with incarcerated parents

Why?

VFAP meets a growing need for targeted services supporting women in custody and community. Men account for nearly 95% of the incarcerated population and have access to a full range of services. VFAP bridges gaps in wrap-around services supporting incarcerated women with reentry planning, family reunification, and more.

History

Launched in 2022, VFAP serves women housed in RMSC facility on Rikers Island, along with their children and interim caregivers. In 2024, Mayor Eric Adams invested $1M into women’s reentry services under the Women Forward Initiative, supporting VFAP’s expansion to offer more robust pre- and post-release services for incarcerated women, their children, and caregivers.

Here’s an overview of wrap-around services offered through VFAP:

  • Parenting education classes
  • Individual and group counseling
  • Child therapy
  • Housing Assistance
  • ACS Advocacy
  • Reentry Planning
  • Prison Transition Group
  • Visitation and Transportation Services
  • Tablet and internet resources

Partner Organizations

Frequently Asked Questions

How do people qualify for VFAP?

To qualify for VFAP, individuals must be women in custody at the Rose M. Singer Center Correctional (RMSC) facility, child(ren) of a woman in RMSC custody, or caregiver of a child whose parent is in RMSC custody.

What happens if someone doesn’t comply?

VFAP is voluntary. Individuals reserve the right to opt out of VFAP services or may be terminated according to criteria set by the service provider.

Does it work long-term?

Yes, national research and local data suggest pre-release programs significantly reduce recidivism when wraparound services are provided.

Contact Us

    Ayana Comrie

    Director of Transition Services

    Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice

    Office Phone

    212-416-9095

    Email

    [email protected]