16th Annual Oklahoma Baptist State Convention Prison Ministry Luncheon Shines a Light on Mental Health Re-Entry Program
Mark your calendars for the 16th Annual Oklahoma Baptist State Convention Prison Ministry Luncheon, scheduled for Saturday, November 18, 2023. This significant event aims to empower recently released prisoners to make positive changes and reintegrate into society as productive citizens.
The event will be hosted at the Midwest Community Center at 200 N. Midwest City Blvd., Midwest City, OK 73110. Networking will kick off at 12:00 p.m., followed by the luncheon at 1:00 p.m. Reverend Marcus L. Wallace, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church in Lima, OK, and a prominent figure in the Southwest Creek Landmark District, will be the keynote speaker. This event is open to the public, and all are welcome to attend.
In support of this cause, ODMHSAS and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections (ODOC) have joined forces to implement the Mental Health Re-Entry Program (MHRP).
The MHRP is a collaborative initiative with a primary focus on facilitating the transition of incarcerated individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) into community-based mental health services. Its inception dates back to April 2007, with the introduction of the “Integrated Services Discharge” within the mental health units of three prisons. This pioneering program coordinates mental health services for discharge planning, while the Re-Entry Intensive Care Coordination Teams (RICCTS) provide crucial treatment services to those reintegrating into the community from prison. The MHRP’s ultimate objective is to promote recovery among individuals affected by SMI.
“ODMHSAS is dedicated to working with people who need support after their time in prison,” said Commissioner Carrie Slatton-Hodges. “This population needs support as they re-enter their communities and we are proud to partner with faith-based groups, like the Oklahoma Baptist State Convention Prison Ministry to provide them with resources.”
The Oklahoma Baptist State Convention (OBSC), led by Pastor Anthony Scott, is the largest African American religious organization in Oklahoma and consists of over 250 churches across the state.
“It is important to us that we assist those who are incarcerated, have felony convictions, and their families. We want to be able to help those who struggle with mental health, substance abuse, homelessness, unemployment, etc. We work to make a difference in the lives of people to help them understand there is hope and change can be obtained if you want it.” says Donna K. Thompson, Prison Ministry Director for the OBSC.
Show your support for a vital program and glean valuable insights from Reverend Marcus L. Wallace at the 16th Annual Oklahoma Baptist State Convention Prison Ministry Luncheon. Your participation and support can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals in our community grappling with SMI. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be a part of something truly meaningful.
