In the vast majority of cases, prison performs no real educational or rehabilitative function.

For many years the Pope John XXIII Community has been making contact with detainees in penal institutions, also offering them the chance to join a family home at the end of their sentence and/or suggesting alternative measures. For example, prisoners with drug problems can access a suitable rehabilitation programme.

This experience has shown that for some ex-prisoners, a stay in a community specially designed for them is very important. This led to the creation of a particular type of welcoming home, the Prisoners’ Educational Community.
The educational and rehabilitative activities offered these young people have provided even further proof that, given the right conditions, change is always possible.