The Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) offers a unique program to help families stay connected during difficult times. The Child Visitation Program is offered at the Debra K. Johnson Rehabilitation Center (DJRC) and the Women’s Therapeutic Residential Center (WTRC). Eligible incarcerated women can spend two weekends a month with their children or grandchildren, ages three months to 10 years.
This overnight Child Visitation Program emphasizes the importance of family reunification. Maintaining a bond with family members helps incarcerated mothers stay motivated to improve their lives, while giving children a sense of stability and connection. Research shows that staying connected reduces feelings of isolation for both parents and children and helps families rebuild after incarceration.
Visits begin Friday evenings and end Sunday afternoons. Visits take place in an area designed for families, featuring colorful murals, play areas, kitchens, and private rooms. This environment ensures that children feel safe and comfortable while spending time with their parent or grandparent. A correctional officer is always present to maintain safety, but parents are responsible for supervising their children throughout the visit.
The program requires participants to meet specific criteria, including maintaining good behavior, completing a parenting course, and providing a child's birth certificate. While mothers receive priority, grandmothers can also participate.
For families, these visits are more than just time together. They are a way to heal and grow. Children benefit emotionally by staying connected to their parent, reducing feelings of abandonment. Mothers gain hope and strength from these visits, which can help them focus on rehabilitation and planning for a better future. If you and your family are looking for other visitation opportunities, learn more by clicking here.
The TDOC Child Visitation Program is a reminder that families play a key role in supporting loved ones during incarceration. Fostering these connections can help strengthen family ties and build a foundation of reunification. If you or someone you know has a loved one at DJRC or WTRC, consider exploring this opportunity to stay connected.