About CCCIP
Parental incarceration can have a lifelong negative impact on children. Yet, Canada is the only Commonwealth country and the only first-world country that does not officially recognize the deeply marginalizing effects of having a parent in prison. Studies and experiences from other countries demonstrate that recognition and the resulting specialized supports can dramatically improve children’s life outcomes. CCCIP is dedicated to increasing this awareness in Canada and to supporting our members’ work to foster the creation and delivery of supports that will help children enjoy positive futures where they can thrive.
Our Story
In 2019, CCCIP was formed after 35 community service providers, academics and professionals from across the country came together in Toronto for Dialogue on Children of Incarcerated Parents, a two-day conference for participants to share their work, collaborate and strategize on how to protect and prioritize the rights of children whose parents come into conflict with the law in Canada.
Mission • Vision
CCCIP strives to work collaboratively across organizations and with individuals in Canada in order to strengthen the voice of children and youth, and to raise awareness of the harmful impact of incarceration on children, families and caregivers.
We envision a Canadian society that provides a safe and healthy environment for all children whose parents and family members are incarcerated, in conflict with the law, or have been or are involved with the justice system.
Leadership
As a voluntary, member-based and consensus-building coalition, CCCIP maintains a flat organizational structure. We have a small leadership committee:
Shawn Bayes, Chair Nancy Russell Vivienne Chin
CCCIP will occasionally form special project committees, consisting of interested members.
Administrative costs are underwritten by EFry Hope and Help for Women.
Lived Experience Advisory Group
To help ensure CCCIP’s work reflects the realities faced by those who experience life impacted by parental incarceration in Canada, we are guided by the perspectives and insights of our Lived Experience Advisory Group.
Meeting approximately quarterly, group members consist of those who experienced parental incarceration as children, caregivers, and parents who have been incarcerated while their children were minors. If you have experienced parental incarceration in Canada and are interested in joining our committee, please contact us at info@childrenofincarceratedparents.ca.