People Search: Reconnecting Incarcerated People with Estranged Loved Ones

Humanity for Prisoners’ People Search service exists to help people who are currently incarcerated reconnect with family members and loved ones when contact has been lost. For many people in prison, maintaining relationships is extremely difficult. Limited access to phones, no internet, financial barriers, frequent transfers, and incomplete information can all make it hard to stay in touch or even know where to begin.

People Search is designed specifically for incarcerated people with minimal resources who want help restoring contact in a respectful and careful way. This service is not a law enforcement tool or a public prisoner lookup. It is a human-centered effort focused on reconnection, dignity, and consent.

Why Reconnection Matters During Incarceration

Strong family and community connections play an important role in emotional well-being, stability, and long-term reentry success. When communication breaks down, people inside can feel isolated and cut off from the support systems that matter most. Reconnection can help restore a sense of belonging and hope during incarceration.

How the People Search Process Works

An incarcerated individual completes a 13-question questionnaire about the person they are hoping to reconnect with. A trained team of Humanity for Prisoners volunteers carefully processes each request. If a potential mailing address is identified, we send a form letter explaining who we are, why we are reaching out, and how the recipient may contact their loved one if they choose.

Privacy, Consent, and Care

Every People Search request is handled with sensitivity. Participation is always voluntary, and no personal information is shared without consent. Our goal is to support family reconnection during incarceration while honoring boundaries and privacy on all sides.

If you or someone you care about needs help restoring contact with family, Humanity for Prisoners is here to help. Contact us.