Truth Be Told

Since 2000, Truth Be Told has been addressing a documented service gap in the correctional system for programs designed by women for women. Our gender-responsive programs address the unique risk factors that lead women into the criminal justice system — namely, high rates of interpersonal violence, substance abuse, and histories of childhood physical and sexual abuse. Through programs that offer healing through storytelling, expressive arts, life skills and self-care tools, Truth Be Told empowers women to break free from the imprisoning narrative of past trauma and abuse.

Our Scope and Impact

We offer programs at five women’s correctional facilities in Central Texas. Beyond prison walls, we offer safe community and emotional support for program graduates through weekly peer-facilitated conference calls, online forums, in-person gatherings and a support line.

A review of 15 years of Texas Department of Criminal Justice data revealed that 86.2 percent of Truth Be Told graduates remain free three years after their release from prison. Our graduates track a lower recidivism rate than the state’s average for women.