Dear friend,

I hope you and your loved ones are healthy and safe.

We continue to work hard to get state and federal policymakers to address the threat that COVID-19 poses to people who are incarcerated, particularly the elderly and sick. We have been frustrated by the neglect and inaction by so many leaders, especially since the virus has entered prisons and jails in so many states. All federal and many state prisons are now being locked down, which will make communication with their loved ones even more difficult.

We currently have an online resource for our work to help secure compassionate release for the most vulnerable. Check back frequently, as we have updates almost every day: https://famm.org/covidresponse/

FAMM's efforts are focused on:

(1) promoting compassionate release at the federal level through our emergency effort to match eligible candidates with free attorneys;

(2) pushing governors to use their authority to reduce their prison population during the pandemic and to establish greater transparency regarding their actions, and

(3) helping affected families by sharing their stories with the media, providing information and support through our FAMMilies in Action Facebook group, and pushing for free and reduced phone calls while they are prohibited from in-person visits.

You can learn about all of these efforts and take action to help the most vulnerable people in prison today by visiting famm.org/CovidResponse.

This time is challenging for everyone. I am proud of our staff for working so hard — all from their homes — as they balance family responsibilities and stresses. We are in touch with so many affected family members every day, and they inspire us to keep fighting.

Thanks,


Kevin Ring
President, FAMM

P.S. Text FAMM to 21333 to stay informed on how you can help the most vulnerable during this crisis and beyond.