what is
mac?
AFOI specializes in the needs of children with incarcerated parents by offering the Milk and Cookies Children’s Program or, as we affectionately call it, the MAC Program. The MAC Program is currently active in 7 City of Richmond elementary schools, with more locations being added in FY 2024-2025.
which schools offer mac?
Bellevue Elementary School
Blackwell Elementary School
Chimborazo Elementary School
Fairfield Court Elementary School
Henry Marsh, III Elementary School
Oak Grove-Bellemeade Elementary School
Woodville Elementary School
mac objectives
click here to read an evaluation of mac in the journal of child and family studies
1. FORM RELATIONSHIPS- helps reduce the stigma children may feel by connecting them to others with similar circumstances-build on feelings identification, coping and resiliency skills, and principles of inclusion.
2. Provide a forum for students to discuss feelings-helps children feel less ashamed of having an incarcerated parent, caretaker, or significant family member. MAC uses a peer and facilitator/mentor support model.
TRAUMA-INFORMED
DESIGN PROJECT
AFOI’s Milk & Cookies (MAC) Children’s Program works with children who have an incarcerated parent and their parent/caregiver in the home. When MAC was unable to operate, as normal, within Richmond Public Schools due to the pandemic, AFOI focused efforts on a unique project for these children within their homes. Focusing on trauma-informed design, this project allowed for the creation of amazing new bedrooms and other shared spaces for these children and their families; spaces in which the children can learn, grow, play and find rest/respite - as home, for many of us, became both school/work and home.
support
our cause
We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to do this important work for those impacted by the incarceration of a loved one.
Each dollar donated helps us to provide programming that changes lives.
Thank you for believing in our mission.
