Indexing program changes lives at Idaho women's prison

“They’re doing something for someone else that no one else can do,” she said. “They are helping these families do the research to find these people. It gives them a sense of having really accomplished something when they’re in here.”

Bailey said she has seen how the indexing program has empowered these women and given them a sense of self worth.

“Some of those (women) really have sunshine in their souls,” she said, “but you don’t see it until you get to know them. They’re good people inside, they’ve just made some mistakes.”

Higgins got involved with the project when the prison first opened. He runs a computer repair and installation business out of his home and donated some his used computers to the cause. When the original director, Claude Roberts, passed away, Higgins began helping Bailey by going to the facility with her on Tuesday nights.

He pointed out the women have to meet certain requirements to be allowed the opportunity to index.

Higgins said this program benefits the women because it invites the spirit into their lives. It benefits him as well.

“It gives me an opportunity to serve,” Higgins said. “I probably learn as much as they do.”

Email: mgarrett@desnews.com