Massachusetts
In 2024, Poetic Justice expanded to Western Massachusetts, launching classes at Franklin County Jail and the Western Massachusetts Regional Women’s Correctional Center. Guided by facilitators Bethany Powell and Julie Boucher-De La Cruz, our workshops create space for women to write, reflect, and rebuild community.
The region’s longstanding commitment to rehabilitation makes it an ideal place to grow this movement.
Join us in bringing voice, hope, and change to Massachusetts. Email mainfo@poeticjustice.org for more information on getting involved!
Massachusetts by the Numbers
Source: MA DOC
According to the Massachusetts Department of Correction’s 2024 Quick Statistics, women in state prisons experience much higher rates of mental illness than men. Sixty-five percent were identified as open mental health cases, seventy-two percent had a serious mental illness, and sixty-seven percent were prescribed psychotropic medication.
These numbers reflect the deep connection between trauma, incarceration, and untreated mental health needs. Poetic Justice programs respond to these realities by creating spaces for reflection, healing, and self-expression through writing. Our work centers the emotional wellbeing of women inside, helping them find voice and community through creative practice.
In 2024, Massachusetts had the lowest incarceration rate in the United States, yet for women, it would rank 30th from the bottom when compared to countries worldwide.
Source: Prison Policy Initiative.
Upcoming Training
November 8th
Greenfield, MA
We’re hosting a volunteer training for anyone interested in getting involved with Poetic Justice in Massachusetts. Whether you’re new to our programs or have been curious about joining, this is a great way to learn more, meet the team, and see how you can get involved.
If you’re interested in volunteering with us, we’d love for you to join. Please try to make time to attend this session and connect with others who are helping bring creativity and healing into correctional facilities across the state.