Submitted 

Straight Talk is a support group that provides a safe and confidential space for dialogue and resource sharing for family and friends of those currently or formerly incarcerated.

This is a voluntary gathering of people who share common experiences, situations, or problems related to having a loved one in jail or prison. People who attend Straight Talk offer each other emotional and practical support. Having a loved one being incarcerated can be an isolating experience, and Straight Talk seeks to provide a community of support in face of this difficult reality.

The goal of the Straight Talk Support Group is to empower family members and friends of the incarcerated, so that they might be able to be able to work towards having peace in a difficult time and to be ready to help their loved ones transition back into society. When someone is incarcerated, the effects are felt by the entire community and Straight Talk aims to provide a sense of healing and hope so that the cycles of incarceration can be broken.

On Thursday, Oct. 20, a Straight Talk Support Group will begin meeting at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in the parish hall. St. Luke’s is located at 131 W. Council St. and the parish hall is located next to the main worship space, which is easily spotted by the bell tower. The meeting runs from 7-8 p.m. and will occur every other week; refreshments will be provided.

The Straight Talk Support Group is based in Durham and more information is available at www.straighttalksupportgroup.org. For questions about the Salisbury chapter, contact the Rev. Robert Black at 704-633-3221.