FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 31, 2024
CONTACT: Darlene Spears-Reed, Public Relations Chairman, 202.431.3547 or darlene.spears.reed@gmail.com
Psi Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Drafts Maryland General Assembly Bill Providing Re-entry Services for Formerly Incarcerated Women
Laurel, Md. – The Psi Epsilon Omega (PEO) Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® in partnership with the Women’s Equity Center and Action Network (WE CAN), and Delegate J. Sandy Bartlett of District 32 wrote House Bill 37 entitled “Reentry Services for Women – Commission and Pilot Program - Establishment,” reinforcing its commitment to social justice through advocacy.
The bill is designed to connect formerly incarcerated women in Maryland to supportive services upon their release. It would create a comprehensive reentry plan for the women and identify service gaps.
“We recognize the importance of assisting women as they transition from incarceration to reentry into the community,” said Karen S. Hicks, PEO President. “That’s why we partnered with Del. Bartlett and WE CAN to write this bill and continue to give back to those whose lives have been affected by incarceration through our programs.”
In 2023, PEO chapter members donated over 350 personal care items and nearly $600 in gift cards, and on January 26, the chapter donated 75 bags filled with personal toiletries and winter hats and gloves for distribution to women transitioning from the Maryland Correctional Institute for Women in Jessup.
PEO members will join other sorority members from across Maryland to advocate for the re-entry services for women bill along with others during “AKA Day at the Capitol” on February 28.