Female HOPE Pod Holds Talent Show

Published on August 31, 2026

“Lean on me when you’re not strong
I’ll be your friend, I’ll help you carry on
For it won’t be long
‘Til I’m gonna need somebody to lean on”

The singing of those words could be heard echoing through pod 6D at the Allegheny County Jail on Monday, August 31, 2026, as Foundation of HOPE, the jail's chaplaincy and pre-release partner, organized a talent show.

Incarcerated women residing on that pod took a break from their normal routine to share their talents and cheer each other on during the event which was attended by a variety of jail administrators and staff members.

“It was great,” said Charlene Claypool of the Foundation of HOPE.

Claypool said she was impressed by the talent displayed and was excited to see the response from those incarcerated as well as the other guests.

The show, said Claypool, gives the ACJ residents a chance to build camaraderie while getting a small break from their normal routine.

Activities such as the talent show give the population an opportunity to show their true personalities, said Unit Manager Krista Byers.

“It brings everyone together to show positivity, support and encouragement for those performing,” Byers said.

Besides the singing of the Bill Withers classic “Lean on Me,” the talents the women displayed included reading original poetry, telling jokes and dancing.

Media inquiries may be directed to Jesse Geleynse, Public Information Officer for the Allegheny County Jail
jesse.geleynse@alleghenycounty.us or by phone at 412-350-1267 or 412-760-4790 (cell).