Mississippi Prison Program Helps Incarcerated Women Recover and Grow

The Haven, a peer-developed initiative, celebrates first graduating class at the Mississippi Correctional Institute for Women.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:39pm

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The Mississippi Department of Corrections recognized the first graduating class of 'The Haven,' a residential rehabilitation program developed within the Mississippi Correctional Institute for Women. The peer-created initiative focuses on addressing challenges such as addiction, unhealthy relationships, and personal accountability, while encouraging participants to pursue long-term positive change.

Why it matters

The Haven program provides a structured, supportive environment for incarcerated women to reflect, grow, and develop healthier coping strategies, preparing them for life both during incarceration and after release. The program's holistic approach aims to equip participants with the tools and mindset to make meaningful changes in their lives.

The details

The Haven is structured in three phases, with the first cohort completing Phase One: Refuge. Coursework during this phase includes instruction on emotional awareness, forgiveness, identity, recovery principles, life skills, codependency, and self-discovery. Participants live together in a shared unit, where they attend classes, share meals, and support one another through accountability and peer encouragement.

  • The first graduating class of The Haven program was recognized in a recent ceremony.

The players

The Haven

A peer-developed residential rehabilitation program created by incarcerated women at the Mississippi Correctional Institute for Women to support others working toward personal growth and recovery.

Mississippi Department of Corrections

The state agency that recognized the first graduating class of The Haven program.

Whitney Hixson

An incarcerated individual who has recently been granted parole and shared her personal experience in the program, describing it as a turning point in her life.

Dr. Beth Masters

The chaplain and facilitator of The Haven program, who emphasized the level of commitment required to complete the program.

Katrina Reid

The superintendent of the Mississippi Correctional Institute for Women, who commended the graduates for their commitment to the program.

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What they’re saying

“The Haven was created by incarcerated women for incarcerated women who struggle with habits, hangups, and who are working toward freedom from addiction, bondage, relationships, and finding liberty in Christ.”

— Inmate Facilitator, Long-term incarcerated participant who helped develop the program

“You have chosen to work on yourself for a season, and that is what it takes. We have dug, and they have really examined themselves in this program. They have received certificates of completion for 11 in-person classes. They were also asked to complete a set of classes on their tablets. They have truly earned these certificates.”

— Dr. Beth Masters, Chaplain and facilitator of The Haven program

“Recovery is a journey of a thousand steps, and today you took a significant one. The tools you have learned can serve as a strong foundation for continued growth and progress.”

— Katrina Reid, Superintendent of the Mississippi Correctional Institute for Women

What’s next

The Haven program is currently in its initial phase, with plans to expand to additional phases and continue supporting incarcerated women in their personal growth and recovery journeys.

The takeaway

The Haven program demonstrates the power of peer-led initiatives to create meaningful change and support for incarcerated individuals. By fostering a community of accountability, self-reflection, and personal development, the program aims to equip participants with the tools and mindset to make lasting improvements in their lives, both during and after incarceration.