Technology in the modern age is nothing short of extraordinary. Twenty years ago, people waited in line for the newest plasma TVs; today, people have miniature TVs able to stream anything from old Disney movies to live sports with minimal effort, all in the palm of their hands. Cars are electric, ordering food can be done without speaking, and AI can create entire videos from the specifications of a prompt. Technology is advancing at an incredible speed, but for all of it's new functions, the power of communication remains one of it's most important features.
The ability to communicate with anyone, anywhere, at an almost instantaneous speed is more like a superpower than something humans created. Loved ones are never more than a text or phone call away. Uncertainties don't need to be resolved at a later date, and nights in don't have to be all that lonely. News no longer need two or three days before becoming well-known, ensuring current events are current. Staying up to date and in consistent contact with loved ones helps us as people stay grounded and connected with each other, but unfortunately there is a population within the United States that does not have this luxury.
The incarcerated population is behind in a lot of aspects. Last to find out groundbreaking news, oblivious to new technologies released, and hindered from consistent contact with the outside world, incarcerated populations are truly being punished. In an isolated environment such as this, it is no wonder many are quick to anger or are largely mistrusting of new people. Perhaps the greatest grievance is the effect this isolation has upon release. This isolation makes it hard to talk to people in outside society, making release a confusing and overwhelming experience for most. They may not have an idea on what has changed, what behaviors they need to change, and must readjust what was normal inside to what is normal outside. All of these factors can make recidivism increase, perpetuating a cycle of incarceration that is painful for all parties involved. Access to telephone services helps inmates maintain connection with their loved ones, letting them know that they are not alone and helps keep them connected to the outside world. It helps inmates realize they have a support system within, and help waiting on the outside.
Orange County, Florida is seeking proposals from qualified contractors to provide inmate telephone services. If interested in this opportunity, click on the link to learn more. The bid closes July 22, 2025 at 4:00 PM EDT.