Grace and Second Chances: Thistle on the Inside

A beacon of hope 

In 2013, Thistle Farms took a bold step to support women survivors of human trafficking and prostitution by launching Thistle on the Inside (TOI) at the Tennessee Prison for Women, now known as the Debra K Johnson Rehabilitation Center. This innovative program offers incarcerated trafficking survivors a unique opportunity to embark on their healing journey even before their release from prison. 

Thistle on the Inside provides a comprehensive suite of services to help these women rebuild their lives. Participants engage in classes designed to teach essential life skills, coping mechanisms, self-care techniques, and cognitive skills. Individual trauma therapy and cognitive skill development are also integral parts of the program. This holistic approach ensures that women are well-equipped to face the challenges ahead. 

Breaking the cycle of recidivism 

One of the most significant aspects of TOI is its seamless transition into the Thistle Farms Residential Program upon release. This partnership with the Tennessee Department of Correction and the Debra K Johnson Rehabilitation Center aims to reduce the high recidivism rate among incarcerated women by offering them a stable and supportive environment immediately after their release. The success of this initiative is exemplified by the story of Ty, a 2015 graduate of Thistle Farms. Ty was able to make parole during her first hearing because the Thistle Farms community vouched for her, assuring the parole board that she would have a place to go and support upon release.

Since its inception 11 years ago, Thistle on the Inside has been a source of hope and learning for numerous women, including LaShonda, a 2023 graduate and now a Manufacturing Team Lead. LaShonda's journey with TOI began in prison, where she persistently showed up to the classroom every day, even when there were no openings. Her determination paid off when she was finally welcomed into the program, marking the beginning of a transformative experience. 

LaShonda's story is a testament to the program's impact: "I found out about TOI when I was in prison. They didn’t have any openings, but I went down to the classroom every day, anyway. I helped set up the room and clean up. I knew I wanted to be there, so I figured I’d keep showing my face. On January 17, 2017, I was washing clothes when an officer came to my door and told me to go to class in the old school, which is the education building. And when I walked in, Shelia had her arms open and said, 'Welcome home.'" 

Programming brings peace of mind 

The program's dedicated staff, including a TOI Therapist and a Program Coordinator, play a crucial role in supporting the women. The full-time therapist builds rapport and trust through bi-weekly, one-on-one therapy sessions, providing continuity and stability that are vital for effective therapy. This relationship continues when participants transition to the Thistle Farms Residential Program after leaving prison. 

Group activities offered through TOI, such as Narcotics Anonymous, therapeutic improv acting, creative writing, group trauma therapy, and psychoeducational classes, mirror those available in the Thistle Farms Residential Program. This consistency helps participants feel more comfortable and prepared for life after release. 

Thistle Farms' commitment extends to attending parole hearings with residents, advocating on their behalf, and assuring the parole board of the participants' dedication to the program and the support system awaiting them upon release. One participant noted the peace of mind this brings, knowing that they can build relationships with Thistle Farms while still incarcerated and have a clear understanding of what to expect upon release. 

Thistle on the Inside is not just a program; it’s a lifeline. It provides incarcerated women survivors of human trafficking and prostitution with the tools, support, and hope they need to rebuild their lives and break free from the cycle of recidivism. This program stands as a testament to the power of community, compassion, and comprehensive care in transforming lives.