FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions)

What are some facts about Women in Prison?

  • Close to 70% of women incarcerated are serving time for drug related offenses;
  • 80% of the women in prison are single mothers and 70% of these women were the primary caregivers prior to incarceration;
  • Nearly 1.5 million children are the "hidden victims of crime" having a parent in prison, making parental criminality a common childhood experience; the children of inmates are 6x's more likely than average to serve time in prison;
  • Women in prison report significant histories of physical and sexual abuse at a rate over 80% the rate of female non-offenders;
  • The average age of the women in prison is 29, 36% are white, 52% are  black, and 12% Hispanic
  • Women offenders have a higher incidence of physical health probelms than men and are affected by certain diseases at a greater rate than men (eating disorders, HIV and STD's)
  • The Department  of Justice report that approximately 66% of the men and women released each year will return to prison within three years and some reports indicate the rate for women to be as high as 72%.

FAQ's about The House of Ruth

How long do the women live at the house?
The women live at the house from several days to a few months, in most cases 4-6 months.

Where do the women go after they leave?
Some go on to a long term residential program, other's to a drug and alcohol treatment program or into housing of their own in the community or with family.

Do the women work?
Yes, if they are able , working helps them prepare for living independently in the community.

How do you determine who will come to live at the house?
Application to the house is voluntary, not court ordered and applicants are preparing for release into the community. The application process includes an interview and review by a committee. Women who have expressed a desire to live in a Christ centered home and have participated in B.I.R.D. Ministries pre-release program at Lancaster County Prison get first consideration.

Where does the money come from to support the ministry and the House of Ruth?
Funding is primarily donations from: individuals, businesses, churches, community groups and organizations. Applications for funding in the form of grand requests are submitted regularly.

How many women will be living at the house?
We are allowed to have three women living at the house at a time with an expectation of about 10-12 women over a year's time.

Will children be living at the house?
We have had children live at the house , however this is considered on a case by case basis and the age and number of children is a major factor when considering residency at the house.

What are some of the needs that people can help with at the house?
We are always in need of household supplies ,office equipment such as a computer, copier and miscellaneous office supplies.  There is always a need for volunteers to help with transportation ,the upkeep of the grounds and buildiing as well as a variety of other work projects. Women interested in being mentors is always a big need and mentor training is available. If you are interested in helping in any of these areas or have a suggestion of how you would like to help please let us know. For more information Click under our "Programs" tab to view our mentoring program. Or the "Support Us" tab.