Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Emunah Evans. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Emunah , appreciate you joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

I am a formerly incarcerated mother of three whom served four years in a north carolina Prison. During the time I was incarcerated my hardest challenge was being away from children, but later I found that reunification was even harder. After my release from prison, I worked hard to get employment, and safe housing to Get my three children back in my care. Once I did get my children back in my care I realized I didn’t have the support system to help me step back into being a full-time parent. I was lost when It came to how to discipline, how to navigate being a parent without the guilt of being away from 4 years. Due to my stigma of being formerly incarcerated I didn’t fit in with your avenge parental groups for parents. I needed a space to heal, build community in a safe space with individuals with the same or similar lived experiences. In august 2023 Bonding Families was Born. Bonding Families is a support group for families and individuals with criminal records and incarcerated loved ones. We offer emotional support. access to resources, and the chance to build community with others of similar lived experiences. Free childcare and food is provided at every meetings. Our in-person meetings are offered the second Thursday of every month, 6-8pm. and a zoom option on the last Wednesday of every month from 6:30-7:30pm. Our mission is “Reunify Families by providing the necessary support, resources, and guidance to strengthen bonds,rebuild trust, and create a loving and nurturing environment for all families to thrive”

Emunah , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a formerly incarcerated mother of three. I am the Founder of Bonding Families, I work at Benevolence Farm as the community advocacy director. Running bonding families where I support Mothers with reunification. I provide court support, assistance with finding employment, housing, furniture, childcare, and various resources families need to thrive. With help of Benevolence Farm and through their housing first fund, I have help secure housing for families by paying their security deposits. I also assist with making body care products, and candles alongside our residents at The farm, where the proceeds go towards the employment wages of our residents. One thing that set me aside from others are I use my failures as motivation that guides my work with helping other people.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Coming home from prison after being incarcerated for 4years , being away from my children facing housing discrimination, employment discrimination, and lack of support from my community. Being able to be in the position im in now to help ease that burden off other individuals with similar lived experiences.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Prior to incarceration I had big dreams of becoming a Nursing and working in labor and delivery. Due to my incarceration and the stigma of being labeled a violent felon, I was able to pursue my career as a Nurse. I had to pivot and I built my career by advocating for the rights of other formerly incarcerated individuals.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.benevolencefarm.org
• Instagram: bondingfamilies2023
• Facebook: Bonding Families
• Linkedin: Emunah Evans

Image Credits
Stacey sprenz