Give a Second Chance

The Florida Justice Institute helps protect some of Florida’s most vulnerable people by fighting the state government to follow the law.

When Florida refused to treat prisoners with Hepatitis C, FJI fought them and won, saving hundreds of lives. 

And when Florida’s prisoners are serving harsh, multi-decade sentences are in dire health condition, often near death, FJI helps get them released on medical parole so that they don’t have to die in prison. 

Elmer is one of those prisoners who FJI helped get released on medical parole is. In 2022, Elmer was 24 years into a 40-year sentence for burglary where no weapons were used and no one was physically harmed. During his time in prison, he developed cancer that spread to his bones and caused him to be paralyzed from the waste down. Doctors gave him six months to live. FJI fought for his release so that he could spend his last days with family and receive quality medical care in the hopes that his life could be extended.

Three years later, Elmer has defied doctors’ expectations and is doing well. Spending time with loved ones while getting quality medical care has drastically improved his health and mental wellbeing.

There are more people like Elmer in Florida’s prisons right now and FJI is fighting for them. For Give Miami, please consider giving to FJI so we can continue doing this important work.