Onesimus Foundation Limited

Onesimus Foundation Limited is a Tasmanian charity dedicated to supporting people with convictions, their families, and communities affected by imprisonment. Recognising the profound social, emotional, educational, and financial impacts incarceration has on families, the foundation works to reduce harm and nurture healthy family relationships during imprisonment. It collaborates with government and community agencies to provide support both during incarceration and through reintegration into society, aiming to transform lives and strengthen communities.

Family Engagement and Support Program

The foundation’s flagship activity is the Family Engagement and Support Program, which focuses on maintaining and improving connections between prisoners and their families. This program includes the work of Family Engagement Workers who provide direct support to offenders and their families, helping to reduce reoffending and safeguard the wellbeing of children and family members. The program also facilitates video visits and accommodation for families visiting Risdon Prison, ensuring ongoing contact and emotional support during incarceration.

Mission and Vision

Onesimus Foundation Limited’s mission is to work with people with convictions, their families, and communities to create healthy family relationships during incarceration. Its vision is to transform lives by fostering these relationships so that released prisoners are welcomed back as useful, profitable, and fulfilled members of society with a reduced risk of reoffending.

Main Objectives

• To lessen the harm caused to families by imprisonment
• To nurture and strengthen family relationships during incarceration
• To support prisoners’ successful reintegration into the community
• To collaborate with government and community agencies for comprehensive support
• To provide training and resources for professionals working with prisoners’ families

Benefiting Groups

• People with convictions in Tasmania
• Families of incarcerated individuals, including children
• Communities affected by imprisonment
• Professionals and agencies working with prisoners and their families

Types of Services and Activities

• Direct family support through Family Engagement Workers
• Accommodation for families visiting prisoners
• Facilitation of video visits to maintain family contact
• Training courses and resources for professionals supporting prisoners’ families
• Networking and collaboration with justice and community organisations