COBB COUNTY, GA — Thursday was an emotional day for seven mothers at the Cobb County Jail as they were able to spend time with their children.

The opportunity is part of the Bond Beyond Bars program at the jail.

Cobb County Sheriff Craig Owens said the visits give incarcerated mothers a chance to maintain their connection with their children.

“They’ve been away from them for a long period of time. Unfortunately, sometimes it can cause them to lose that bond,” Owens said. “So, we wanted to make sure that we kept that bond and that family bond together.”

One inmate, Jessica, said she was overwhelmed and grateful to see her daughter for the first time in 17 months.

“Overwhelmed, but very excited and very thankful. Just amazed I got to see my daughter. It’s been 17 months,” Jessica said.

“It just really warms my heart that we’re able to do that for them,” Owens said.

Owens hopes to expand the program with similar visitation opportunities closer to the holidays.