Adopt A Former Inmate

Dream Central Chattanooga is incredibly proud of Jessica and her mentor, Brenda Short! Here is Jessica’s story. ❤️❤️

Jessica ‘s story began at Catoosa County Jail.  That is where she learned about Dream Central’s mentorship program for former women inmates.  After being released, Jessica was accepted into Dream Central’s Adopt A Former Inmate Program.  A mentor met with her on a regular bases. The program offers various types of help to women inmates as they work to acclimate back into society.

Jessica, a mother of three, had struggled with drug use.  She worked through the mentorship program to help rebuild her life. However, Jessica had a relapse during her probation period and was taken back to jail.  At her court date her mentor testified on Jessica’s behalf.  The judge sentenced Jessica to 9 months at a rehabilitation facility, stating this would be more beneficial to her than jail time.  During her stay at the facility, Dream Central reached out to Jessica with encouragement and provided funding for her children at Christmas as well as summer programs.

Jessica was released in October 2023 and followed the program requirements. She recently received her certificate of Achievement for the Substance Abuse Aftercare Program which symbolizes her achievement toward successful reentry into society.  She is employed and back with her children.  Jessica is a success story and one of many who have been help by Dream Central’s Adopt A Former Inmate Program.