Success StoryOver 145,000 Kentucky Children Affected by Parental Incarceration



Over 145,000 Kentucky Children Affected by Parental Incarceration

Author: MacKenzie Preece

Planning Unit: Franklin County CES

Major Program: Family and Consumer Science

Plan of Work: Family Nurturance, Youth Empowerment, Parenting and Care-giving

Outcome: Initial Outcome

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.






Stories by MacKenzie Preece


"Find Your Yes Day" – The Ultimate Field Trip for Franklin County Youth

about 1 months ago by MacKenzie Preece

Find Your Yes Day – The Ultimate Field Trip for Franklin County YouthDescribe the Issue or Situation... Read More


Stories by Franklin County CES


Statewide Horticulture Agent In-Service Training

Statewide Horticulture Agent In-Service Training

about 1 months ago by Adam Leonberger

The C1 and C2 County Extension Agents for Horticulture, in partnership with the University of Kentuc... Read More


 Franklin County Extension Office to install solar panels, batteries for electric needs

Franklin County Extension Office to install solar panels, batteries for electric needs

about 2 months ago by Carla Carter

The newly installed solar panels at the Franklin County Cooperative Extension Office. Photo Credits:... Read More