United States Catholic Conference

The Jobs Not Jail program sponsored through state appropriation since 2012 has been very successful. This program offers fathers who are behind in child support payments an alternative to incarceration. Through employment training, these fathers can obtain work at a living wage which in turn enables them to support their children. In 2024, this program gave 123 men the opportunity to gain employment and meet their child support obligations rather than go to jail. This resulted in savings to taxpayers of $1,416,960.

The Health Access Initiative provides physical and mental health screening and health education for fathers, thus providing fathers a better way to provide for their children by becoming healthier and dealing with potential health issues at an early stage. With improved health, fathers will maintain better work records, which will enable them to retain employment and support their children. With the ability to support their children these fathers can become an integral part of their children's lives.