The Women's Community Correctional Center in Hawaii hosted a Mental Health Day on Monday, allowing over 60 inmates to participate in activities promoting awareness, healing, and empowerment. Warden Ione "Noni" Guillonta and DCR Director Tommy Johnson attended, with Johnson noting, "Events like this represents DCR’s mission to provide rehabilitative support to those in our custody and care," according to the Office of the Governor.
The event featured a talent show where inmates performed songs and recited poetry, along with sports competitions and educational sessions on mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. These activities are part of WCCC’s broader effort to integrate mental health care with rehabilitation and support successful reentry into society, as reported by the Office of the Governor.
At Women's Community Correctional Center Mental Health Day, inmates shared their experiences with mental health and the support they received from staff. "We take the mental health of our residents very seriously," said Dr. Erin Wilkinson, DCR Mental Health Branch Administrator. "This was a wonderful example of the mental health team supporting the inmates' commitment to their own well-being and personal growth through this event." The day ended with inmates and staff doing the "Electric Slide" line dance and having a meal of burgers and hot dogs. Warden Guillonta said, "They work very hard. I’m very proud of what the Mental Health staff do here," as stated by the Office of the Governor.
