Latin America and the Caribbean
More than 1.5 million prisoners in Latin America and the Caribbean are locked away and forgotten. The Prison Fellowship family of ministries across the region serves prisoners, ex-prisoners, their families and victims of crime through 29 affiliates.
Overview
In 1972 the Association for the Protection and Assistance of the Condemned established the first APAC prison. These prisons combine restorative justice with faith-based practices to create an environment which reinforces the dignity of every prisoner while promoting personal trust and change. While the idea of a prison without guards may evoke skepticism, PFI chose to partner with the program, and there are now 103 APAC prisons thriving throughout Latin America.
The national ministries in this region have developed a plethora of programs which extend support to the families of prisoners and the communities affected by rampant crime. This is a testament to the generous hearts and dedication of those who have seen the transformative power of Christ in the lives of prisoners.
Regional Statistics
Latin America and the Caribbean Ministries are Making a Difference
Whether sharing the Good News, serving children and families, engaging offenders and victims in restorative programs or supporting in reintegration efforts, our teams across the region are transforming thousands of lives every day.
60,898
Good News
13,989
Children and Families
16,459
Victim Empathy
11,607
Reintegration
This powerful work wouldn't be possible without the dedication of staff, thousands of church partners, volunteers and Board Members across the region.
219
Staff Employed
1,355
Churches Engaged
9,601
Active Volunteers
223
Board Members
Dorestela Medina
Praise be to the Lord for He has heard my cry. The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. The Lord hears our cries, He hears the prisoner’s cries for mercy, the cries of the children of prisoners, and the cries of victims of crime. Even though prisons are places of darkness—imprisoning hearts and minds—the Kingdom of God is found in prison, too. Prison bars cannot keep out the Word of God. It goes through prison bars, reaching the hearts of these men and women.