Read Away
Healing Through Story Time
One in every 13 children in Maine has experienced having a parent or caregiver in incarceration. The ripple effects can be profound: lost connection, chronic stress, and deep emotional strain.
United Way of Southern Maine’s Read Away program helps children stay connected to their mothers by bridging the distance with story, voice, and love—because emotionally healthy kids are the foundation of resilient communities.
How it Works
- At the Maine Correctional Center and the Southern Maine Women’s Reentry Center, moms record themselves reading children’s books aloud.
- United Way staff and volunteers package the book, a secure video link, and themed educational materials—like art supplies—into a special delivery that goes directly to the child.
- Moms and kids are given an opportunity to thrive despite their circumstances. For many kids, it’s the closest thing to a hug they’ve felt in a long time.
Why It Matters
Parental incarceration is what experts call an Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE), which has long-term harm. Without connection, kids can feel isolated, fall behind in school, and carry emotional wounds well into adulthood. Read Away helps mitigate that harm—keeping children grounded in love while helping mothers stay present as parents.
Get Involved
A donation of $30 sends a package to a Read Away child. Make a monthly donation to support a child year–round.
Read Away is also seeking thoughtful volunteers to help the mothers record their stories. Contact Nina Misra for more information.
Read Away's Impact in the first few months
31
participating mothers
46
personalized videos
102
minutes of shared story time with their kids
