Words from C Sheers

21st February 2023
Dear Jackie and staff

We wish to thank SJA for the amazing support we have received for our son who was released from prison last December. He received no preparation for release. Basically, he was set up to fail and would very possible have been in trouble with the justice system already if SJA had not been there to provide support.

Your organisation aided with registration with WINZ and the basic living needs anyone would need in order to have a chance to succeed. We believe the organisation is crucial to help others who are released from Prison without identity documents or places to live. The gang culture in New Zealand is getting out of control with the lack of support to people who wish to turn their lives around but end up with nowhere to go to make that happen.

Those who have been incarcerated through the covid years have suffered tremendous times of isolation being locked up for 23 hours a day for months on end and also visitations being denied. Covid is over in New Zealand but still some prisoners are denied visits unable to see partner, children, and other family members. SJA has provided support and care to our family as a whole and we are truly grateful. We value the time that SJA staff members have dedicated on a voluntary basis which has made a real difference to our son.

We hope that other members of society get on board to value the work and commitment of this organisation to make a real difference in society.

Yours sincerely,
C SHEERS