At a glance: Donations are sought for chapel at Oklahoma women's prison

However, groundbreaking for a new chapel at Mabel Bassett is tentatively expected in early fall. This chapel would provide space for up to 200 people to gather for interfaith services, volunteer programs and educational sessions. Four support rooms can be used for smaller classes, a library and a chaplain's office.

The chapel's budget is estimated to be $500,000. Volunteer labor and donated goods and services will help to mitigate this cost, but monetary donations are needed to make the project a reality, according to World Mission Builders. The new chapel will be constructed under the ongoing partnership between the Oklahoma Department of Corrections and World Mission Builders. World Mission Builders is a team of volunteer workers who construct churches throughout the United States and the world.

“When I first started as a volunteer over 14 years ago, a large class would be 15 to 20 women,” said Polly Ward, who leads the Hosanna Prison Ministry about a Bible study held after the “Mommy and Me” program. “Now we average well over 50.”

For more information, or to learn how to donate, go to http://prisonchapelinc.com