Press Release

RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) continues to find innovative ways for inmates to connect with loved ones.

The VADOC recently partnered with The Messages Project to allow parents at four VADOC Western Region facilities: Bland Correctional Center, Keen Mountain Correctional Center, Red Onion State Prison, and Wallens Ridge State Prison to record video messages for their children or grandchildren. Earlier in 2024, the Department and The Messages Project recorded at Fluvanna Correctional Center for Women.

Each parent and grandparent sent love, hope, and inspiration to their children. Some of the parents said a prayer or even sang a song to mark their child’s birthday. Parents also used the opportunity to thank their child’s caregivers.

“These messages will have a lasting impact on the lives of inmates and their cherished loved ones,” said VADOC Reentry & Recovery Services Administrator Jessica Lee. “I thank The Messages Project for giving inmates the opportunity to remain close to their children and those they hold dear. Thank you to the correctional team members at each facility for their dedication to making this special project happen.”

Many parents and grandparents were very creative in the messages they sent their children. Some wrote poems, while others read originals books that they were also able to send to their children.

“The messages that are sent home to the children are for many the start of rebuilding a bond that has been broken, and in some cases, they are the start of a relationship between a parent and their child,” said VADOC Eastern Regional Reentry Specialist and The Messages Project Founder Carolyn LeCroy. “Most of all, they are messages of love.”

More information about The Messages Project can be found on the organization’s website.