MRSA, Mice and Lice

By Lois DeRosa

MRSA, mice and lice-Those are the three words that “Joanne” (name changed) used to describe her life in Lancaster County Prison. Her spirits were better as she was taking the proper medication for her bipolar illness. So now that her mood was stabilizing, she was trying to get more involved and had joined a few classes. Exercise is very limited. There is a gym but it is very overcrowded. There is a TV room but it’s hard to hear and concentrate with everyone talking. You never go outside and get to walk around or feel the sun. There is no “yard” at Lancaster County Prison (like we see in all those movies). Read more

Giving hope to women in prison

By Lois DeRosa

As the “champion” of our church for B.I.R.D Ministries & House of Ruth, it never fails to amaze me how God can use me and others to help give hope to those that are in times of desperate spiritual need, especially those in prison.

Recently, I was approved by the Chaplains office to visit inside the Lancaster County prison and went on my first visit last Saturday. I had a 1 on 1 meeting with a women who had requested a Chaplain’s visit. She cried a lot and has nothing left and nothing to go to upon release. She is housed in what they call “A Cage” by herself.  Read more