Partners and Paws Summer 2022

Prison Pup Program When our Prison Pup Program started at Bland Correctional Center 20 years ago, it was hard to imagine what an important part of our overall program it would become. But now, we are lucky enough to see the impact firsthand. incredible impacts

As the Prison Pup Program continues to thrive, we know that our newest class of puppies will follow in Hank’s footsteps. In the last several months, the Puppy Raisers have formed strong bonds with the puppies in their care and provide them with a regular routine and individualized training. Through their daily training and weekly classes with our trainers, the puppies have already begun to learn and master the first commands and tasks that they will need to become a service dog. The Prison Pup Program helps us to change the lives of the partners with which our dogs are placed. It also changes the lives of the men who are carefully selected to raise a puppy while they are behind bars. Bland Casework Counselor, Reagan Coe, says of the inmates in the program, “They are proud of their relationships with their dogs and love to share their quirks and training progress. I feel this program brings about a sense of joy, purpose, and companionship in an environment that can be challenging.” The incredible impact for all involved makes the Prison Pup Program a truly special part of the Saint Francis journey. We can’t wait to see how it continues to change lives in the years to come!

Vic Foti, supporter, friend, and former board member, was an integral part of getting the Prison Pup Program off the ground. Just a few years ago, he visited the prison to deliver a little puppy to his puppy raiser, Junior, for the first time. Junior named the puppy Hank! Through their work together, Hank learned the initial skills and commands he needed to move through our program successfully. Thanks in part to the Prison Pup Program, you are reading our cover story of Hank becoming a life-changing partner for Bruce!

Vic Foti bringing Hank to his Bland Puppy Raiser for the first time

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