They are donating children’s books by local author Lisa Domany to the Mothering at a Distance program offered to inmate mums at the Mid North Coast Correctional Centre. 

The common theme of the books is about overcoming obstacles and finding ways to shine. Royalties from her book sales go towards organisations which rescue and rehabilitate neglected, unwanted and mistreated dogs.

Mothering at a Distance is a positive parenting program offered by Corrective Services NSW (CSNSW). 

It aims to strengthen the connection between inmate mothers and their children, and reducing the anxiety of being separated from their child. 

Nikki Perkins from CSNSW said the demand for the program amongst inmates has grown this year. 

“This is the third year we’ve been offering the program at the prison,” she said. 

“It’s become a popular program attracting up to 12 enrollments each times it’s offered,” she said.

The program teaches inmates practical, positive parenting skills. It also provides them with ways to stay connected with their children while in custody through art and craft, and storytelling.

“It gives the women the opportunity to do something positive and reach out to their children,” Ms Perkins said.

“Studies show that children who are read to, do better at school.

“It’s helping the women improve their literacy skills and also helping their children. Story Time is an important part of our parenting program and thanks to Rotary’s pledge to continue donating books, it will continue.”

“The inmate mums endorse the program describing it as the “best thing that they’ve ever done” for their children and themselves.

“One said that the Story Time project has brought her closer to her sons. 

Whenever they miss her, they can put on the CD and listen to her reading to them she told me.”