Myrtle Beach’s Bright New Step for Female Inmates
In a heartwarming effort to make a positive change, Horry County deputies have officially turned a gloomy part of the J. Reuben Long Detention Center into a brighter, more uplifting environment for female inmates. Nearly 30 women have moved into the brand new women’s housing unit, which has been revamped from an empty building that stood idle since 2020. The fresh space is not just about aesthetics; it serves a deeper purpose, providing a supportive atmosphere for those eager to embark on a journey of recovery.
A Refreshing Change
The newly designed housing unit can accommodate up to 64 inmates and is a major upgrade from the cold, dark jail cells many have endured. Decorated with inspirational quotes and pictures of remarkable women from history, this space aims to foster hope and motivate change. One female inmate shared her feelings about the transformation, saying, “I don’t wanna be that same person I was anymore. I have the rest of my life ahead of me. I want to go to school. I have dreams and aspirations that I want to achieve.”
It’s inspiring to hear such passion and determination, especially coming from those who have faced significant challenges. This new housing unit has clearly made a lasting impression. One inmate compared living in the new space with her experience in the old cell, stating, “Now we’re over here, it’s more like a therapeutic community.” She adds, “I genuinely love being over here way more. We all work together more and have a closer bond. Whenever we were behind closed doors, we could not talk and hold each other accountable like we needed to.”
Empowering Programs for Change
To be a part of this uplifting experience, female inmates can apply for recovery programs that have recently expanded to cater to them. The new housing unit offers a variety of classes, including addiction counseling, art therapy, and relapse recovery. These classes provide inmates with the necessary tools to build a better future and equip them with skills that can dramatically change their lives.
Peer support specialist Kimberly Watts plays a significant role in this initiative, bringing a personal touch to her support. She expressed her passion for helping these women: “It’s absolutely humbling because I have been an inmate here. I have been through these doors many times on the other side, and now I get to come back into a place where I can give hope.”
Hope for the Future
The recovery program has only been available to female inmates for about two years, but the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Shortly after the new housing unit opened its doors, Kimberly told us that they received nearly a dozen applications in just the last week. It’s a clear sign that these women are ready to take responsibility for their futures and make significant changes in their lives.
This positive move in Horry County is more than just a change of scenery; it’s about fostering hope, creating bonds, and empowering women to redefine their paths. It’s wonderful to see our community come together to support those in need and help transform their lives for the better.
With continued support and dedication, this new chapter is just the beginning for many women ready to make their mark in the world. The journey ahead may be challenging, but they are not alone—this community stands ready to cheer them on every step of the way!
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
