ST. LOUIS — In 1997, the Sisters of Mercy and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet founded what was called the Center for Women in Transition, now called Keyway. Fast forward 3 years and Sister Rose hired one employee whose life in and out of prison turned upside down. It is a story of resilience and hope. Meet Barbara Baker.
“August 23rd, 1999 about 1:30 in the afternoon,” says Barbara Baker.
A date she will never forget. It was the day that Barbara Baker’s life was changed.
“When I first came to Keyway I had no idea what they did, I just happened to be at the right place at the right time,” says Baker.
It was on this late summer day that Barb was offered a job at Keyway Center for Diversion and Re-entry. It was an organization that quickly grew to be more than just a paycheck.
Keyway advocates for and assists women in the criminal justice system to support their successful transition to both family and the community. The local nonprofit offers supportive housing, case management, life skills education, behavioral health services, peer support, and of course, basic needs.
A compassion that Barb and her 15 years in prison never saw before.
“That was my 5th time out of prison; and when I came out, so many doors were slammed in your face.”
As their Advocate Director, Barb works hands on with women helping them heal with stories of her own trials and showing them the love she always hoped for. Now, after 25 years of service, Barb is retiring from Keyway. But, her legacy will carry on!
“Hosting this 25 hour giving campaign, 25 hours in honor of her service, in honor of second chances, in honor of women who are returning to our community from incarceration,” says April Foster, Executive Director at Keyway.
“I just did a job that they were paying me for, and I just thank God they gave me an opportunity to give back to a community that I took so much from,” says Baker.
Because every woman deserves another chance.
“I hope to see it stand another 25 years.”
Keyway serves over 150 women per year, but the need is far greater with 400 applicants, so they need your help! Donate to their 25 Hours for 25 Years campaign by visiting keywaycenter.org.