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. 2025;19(1):55-62.
doi: 10.1353/cpr.2025.a956597.

A Pilot Program of a Peer Support Group by and for Formerly Incarcerated Women

Lauren Nguyen, Will Boles, Kenyatta Anderson, Dolfinette Martin, Anjali Niyogi, Ashley Wennerstrom

A Pilot Program of a Peer Support Group by and for Formerly Incarcerated Women

Lauren Nguyen et al. Prog Community Health Partnersh. 2025.

Abstract

Background: Women leaving incarceration face numerous barriers to reentry, including lack of social support, mental health conditions, and trauma.

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility of developing and implementing a peer-support group by and for formerly incarcerated women (FIW).

Methods: A draft peer support curriculum was developed and refined based on a focus group with FIW. The program was implemented and participants engaged in a follow-up focus group to provide feedback.

Results: Participants reported several benefits of participation, positive experiences regarding program logistics and content, and they valued having an FIW as the facilitator.

Conclusions: A peer support intervention by and for FIW was well-received. Additional research is needed to assess whether such an intervention can improve mental health among FIW.

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