WASHINGTON (AP) — A D.C. courts program aims to help men returning to the community after incarceration reconnect with their children and pay child support.

The Fathering Court program will graduate 14 fathers on Friday. The program was created after studies found that one in four adults returning to the community in the District owes court-ordered child support, but it is meant to help men reconnect with their children emotionally, too.

The program combines needs assessment, skill development opportunities, case management and peer support. It connects noncustodial parents with community resources with an emphasis on employment to help them meet their children’s needs. It also offers participants housing assistance and referrals, substance abuse treatment and counseling, mediation services and referrals for legal assistance.

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