Recent statistics reveal that over 145,000 children in Kentucky have experienced having an incarcerated parent, constituting a staggering fifteen percent of the state's child population. This figure is double the national average, marking Kentucky with the highest percentage in the nation. In Franklin County alone, approximately 800 children are impacted by parental incarceration.

The Annie E. Casey Foundation describes parental incarceration as a "shared sentence," emphasizing the profound and widespread impact it has on children, families, and communities.

In response to this pressing issue, Franklin County 4-H and the Wanda Joyce Robinson Foundation have joined forces to establish a supportive environment for teenagers affected by parental incarceration. The mission of the Wanda Joyce Robinson Foundation is to cultivate and invest in relationships that empower children, youth, and families impacted by incarceration.

Through this collaboration, Franklin County 4-H and the Franklin County Cooperative Extension Office have launched a high school teen outreach program. This initiative provides a safe space for teenagers to gather and learn under the guidance of trusted adults. Mentors, Wanda Joyce Robinson Foundation staff, school counselors, volunteers, and 4-H agents come together to assist teens in essential life skills such as budgeting for meals, grocery shopping, cooking, and receiving educational lessons.

Additionally, as part of the program, youth cook recipes from the Kentucky Extension's Nutrition Education Program. These recipes are selected for their healthiness, simplicity, and affordability, ensuring that teenagers can learn to prepare nutritious meals without breaking the bank.

The program aims to provide teenagers with the necessary support and resources to navigate challenges associated with parental incarceration, fostering resilience and empowerment within the community.