"We usually say how a year has brought us ups and downs but this year has definitely hit us hard with this pandemic! I am thankful that my family and friends have remained safe, I’m thankful for still having some type of contact with my loved one, whether it's through GTL emails or video visits!"
-Roxana, IL

"I am thankful for having ConnectNetwork as an option to stay connected with my loved one. Its delivery method is faster than mail right now. I'm also thankful for life, love & family. This year has taught me to be grateful for the little things and take nothing for granted. Gratitude is a must."
-Saada, SCI Forest, PA

"I am so thankful for the ability to communicate with my partner who is incarcerated. Letters and calls are cherished, and video visits and emails amplify that feeling. It’s nice to be able to send a quick message to my partner, reminding him he’s loved, and to see his smiling face twice a week."
-Vanessa, Dixon Correctional Center, IL

"I'm thankful that despite this year being so difficult, not being able to see my son, give him a hug and kiss, I have been able to video visit. It isn't perfect and we all need the touch of a loved one, but it is better than nothing. I'm looking forward to visiting in person...soon!!"
-Michelle, River North Correctional Center, VA

"I'm so thankful for the video visits. I live 4 hours away from where my husband is incarcerated and don't have a great vehicle or a lot of money. During the pandemic I've been able to have free video visits and stay connected to him. I'm so thankful for this."
-Melissa, New Hampshire Department of Corrections, NH

"I am so very thankful that this communication service has allowed my relationship with my brother to not only survive, but thrive. I feel that our constant communication has allowed me to continually mentor, support, and encourage my loved one. It has allowed our relationship to stay strong."
-Kimberly, SCI Dallas, PA

"I am thankful for my family and friends who stuck with me through all the really rough years of my past. I'm far from perfect but my heart and my faith is what I'm thankful for. Without those things and my family pushing me along the way and support from the community... I know I would not be here today."
-Crystal, FWPD (TY), IN

"I am thankful for my family, for our health and the fact we are here for one another. If I could offer some encouragement through the hard times is to remember the great time and find the silver line in everything."
-Tameka, Highlands County, FL

"I am thankful that my loved ones (in prison and out!) are well and COVID 19 free! Because of the free calls through this rough time, my fiance has been able to get back in touch with his kids after a few years apart. That means so much to us all!! Family is everything, especially now!!"
-Nancyjo, Avenal State Prison, CA

"In spite of all of the challenges that we experienced this year, we’re still healthy and safe. I’m so grateful that God has kept our family in perfect peace and all of our needs were met! Although all our family members can’t be together physically, we’re connected by Love!"
-Lorraine, Marion Correctional Institution, OH

"What I am thankful for, first and foremost, is my freedom, my health, my family, my children, my job and everyone who has had faith in me to succeed after being incarcerated for 3 years. I am thankful for sobriety and happiness. I am thankful for LIFE!"
-Robin, Ohio Reformatory for Women, OH