Monya Saunders has faced serious challenges in her life, including years of abuse in her marriage. At one point, she fought back against her husband to protect her daughter and ended up incarcerated. “I’ve been in jail, halfway houses, and so much more,” she shared with the Women’s Healing Hearts support group at Yale’s SEICHE Center for Health & Justice. “I lost my kids to DCF. But here I am.”
Since 2017, Saunders has worked as a community health worker and case manager, connecting people who have recently left prison with essential healthcare and social services. She also teaches new medical professionals about the stigma that ex-inmates face. “We don’t just guide people home; we walk beside them,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to support.
Together with Dr. Lisa Puglisi, a Yale internal medicine doctor, Saunders launched the Healing Hearts group during the pandemic. When lockdown made many women feel trapped with their abusers or in addiction, they created a safe space over Zoom. Now, they meet in person for encouragement and to share resources.
When checking in with the group, Saunders listened carefully as a member expressed her struggles to find work. Another group member, Tajuana Peoples, recently graduated from a training program that helps people like them enter the workforce. “They’re out there to help us,” she said, highlighting that support exists for those starting fresh. “Don’t feel stuck.”
Despite some members feeling discouraged, Saunders reminded them of their strengths. “You all have earned a degree,” she explained. “It might not be a traditional degree, but you have knowledge and experience. Employers notice your determination.” Recent statistics from the National Institute of Justice show that individuals with criminal records are often overlooked in hiring, yet many companies value second chances and may even offer tax credits for employing them.
A couple of women in the group agreed, discussing second-chance job programs specifically aimed at helping those with felonies reintegrate into society. The Transitions Clinic not only provides career resources but also legal support from Yale Law students, ensuring they have guidance in every step of their journey.
“It takes support to get back on track,” Saunders said, reflecting on her own experiences. “We often don’t realize how strong we are or how much we’ve overcome.” Her words resonated deeply, and soon the room was filled with affirmations of strength among the members—a reminder that they are not alone in their struggles.
As they brainstormed ideas and shared personal stories, each woman gradually reawakened their hope. “Don’t give up on yourself,” Saunders urged. “We are all so much stronger than we think.”
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Dr. Lisa Puglisi,MATCH program,Monya Saunders,SEICHE Center for Health & Justice,Top Story
