CAN-DO Founder Amy Povah received a text from Phyllis Hardy, the “G’ma of Danbury” who has become the face of the #FREEHER movement started by Andrea James, founder of Families for Justice as Healing.  It was a photo of an award that the Women of Danbury gave to three recipients – “Amy Lou” Povah, Andrea James and Topeka Sam, Ladies of Hope Ministries, for their devotion to helping the women they left behind.

Women of Danbury present an award to Amy Povah of CAN-DO Foundation, Andrea James of Families for Justice as Healing and Topeka Sam for the Ladies of Hope Ministries (the LOHM)

“I was shocked,” said Amy Povah. “I have never received an award for the work I do as an activist. This is something I will cherish and proudly display – when I’m 90 years old, I’ll point to that award and tell my step-great grand children that I survived the war on drugs and tough on crime era, but not without scars.  We must keep fighting for our POWs who are still on the battle field (in prison).  As long as I am breathing, and others are suffering, I will be seeking  “justice through clemency.'”

GREAT THANKS to the WOMEN OF DANBURY for your kindness and generosity in recognizing the work of others – SO MANY MORE deserve to be recognized – the list is endless.  It’s a beautiful thing that so many are stepping up to reach back and help others who are not yet free and those who are now bridging the gap of re-entry.  We are all bonded for life!